Susan Abayomi
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has condemned what it described as false and malicious allegations recently circulated by the National Union of Edible Oil Tanker Drivers of Nigeria (NUEOTDN).
NUPENG said the allegations, published in the online edition of The Nation newspaper on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, were misleading and capable of creating unnecessary tension within Nigeria’s product supply and distribution chain.
In a statement signed by Comrade Tope Ajagbe, a member of NUPENG, the union urged the Federal Government, law enforcement agencies, regulatory authorities and other relevant stakeholders to investigate the matter and take appropriate steps where necessary.
NUPENG also called on NUEOTDN to desist from making what it described as unfounded allegations against the union and from making statements capable of disrupting peaceful relations within the sector.
According to NUPENG, its leadership has consistently pursued peaceful resolution of disputes involving NUEOTDN and the Amalgamated Union of Wharf Truck Owners of Nigeria/Wharf 302 Products and Beverages Association of Tanker Drivers, whose members operate dedicated food-grade trucks.
The union said its efforts at facilitating dialogue and resolving the disagreements had not yielded the desired results, alleging that NUEOTDN had repeatedly rejected conciliation efforts while continuing to circulate what it described as misinformation.
NUPENG further stated that its operations are carried out in compliance with relevant safety, environmental and regulatory requirements. It said the union works with agencies including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to promote safety, regulatory compliance and consumer protection.
The union added that its drivers undergo regular training, inspections and certification to ensure compliance with applicable national standards and industry best practices.
NUPENG said it strongly rejected the allegations attributed to NUEOTDN and reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, integrity, lawful operations and the welfare of Nigerians.
The union urged the Federal Government, regulatory agencies, law enforcement authorities and members of the public to carefully assess the claims made against it and rely on verified facts in addressing issues within the petroleum products distribution sector.
NUPENG also stressed that any dedicated petroleum tanker found to be involved in unlawful activities, particularly the lifting or distribution of edible products, should be apprehended by the appropriate authorities and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The union maintained that it remains committed to lawful operations and would not condone any member found to have engaged in illegal activities.
Signed:
Comrade Tope Ajagbe
NUPENG Member
