The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has announced a three-day suspension of fuel lifting and dispensing, starting Tuesday, in support of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
In a statement released on Sunday, PETROAN’s National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, explained that the action is aimed at resisting monopolistic practices within the downstream petroleum sector, following the Dangote Refinery’s deployment of compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks for direct fuel distribution.
Earlier, NUPENG declared that its members would strike on Monday, September 8, accusing the Dangote Refinery’s operations of undermining labour rights and threatening the viability of independent industry players.
Advertisement
READ MORE : Kano Police Arrest Nine Over Mob Attack On Station
Gillis-Harry emphasized that the strike would be peaceful yet firm, noting that pump attendants at PETROAN-member filling stations, who are also NUPENG members, would not report for duty. He cautioned station owners against taking disciplinary action against any employee participating in the industrial action.
“PETROAN underscores its commitment to advancing the interests of Nigerian citizens in pricing stability and promoting a fair and productive industry,” Gillis-Harry stated.
The association urged President Bola Tinubu, relevant petroleum authorities, security agencies, and NNPC Ltd to intervene immediately to prevent nationwide fuel shortages and hardship.
Gillis-Harry argued that while Dangote’s direct distribution approach is marketed as a cost-saving and efficiency strategy, it could ultimately displace depot owners, modular refineries, marketers, truck drivers, and retail operators, putting “millions” of jobs at risk.
He drew a parallel with the cement industry, warning Nigerians not to be deceived by the apparent short-term advantages of monopolistic practices.
PETROAN noted that emergency consultations had been conducted but resolved that if no resolution is achieved by Monday, members would halt operations starting early Tuesday. A 120-man compliance team is scheduled to monitor and protect facilities while ensuring adherence to the suspension.
