In a joint statement issued on Friday in Abuja by National Executive President Williams Akporeha and Secretary General Aflabi Olawale, NUPENG criticized the duo for allegedly plotting to monopolize the industry, endangering jobs and economic rights.

NUPENG condemned Dangote’s business practices, alleging that he and Dantata prevent workers from joining unions, describing their wealth accumulation as “filthy” and based on worker exploitation. 

The union highlighted Dangote’s plan to import 10,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks for fuel distribution, claiming it aims to dominate the downstream sector. 

New drivers under this scheme are reportedly forced to sign agreements barring them from joining trade unions, a practice NUPENG called unconstitutional and a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution and international labour conventions.

“This is not philanthropy; it is economic sabotage,” the statement read, warning that Dangote’s actions could enslave workers, stifle competition, and raise fuel prices for Nigerians. 

NUPENG announced that, starting Monday, September 8, 2025, members of its Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch would begin seeking alternative employment and skills to counter these threats.

The union called on the Federal Government, through the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, to intervene and curb “tyrannical, anti-union business practices.” 

It also urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and international labour organizations to join in mass protests and industrial actions in solidarity.

“Workers are not slaves. To resist unions is to resist collective bargaining,” NUPENG declared, vowing not to let corporate greed undermine the working class.