The leadership of the Nigeria Liquefied and Compressed Gases Association (NLCGA) has expressed strong concerns over what it describes as the aggressive tactics employed by the National Union of Petroleum and National Gas – Petroleum Tanker Drivers (NUPENG-PTD) in their dealings with Dangote Refinery.
According to the association, the disruptive interventions by NUPENG-PTD at the refinery are severely undermining the nation’s economic advancement, particularly within the downstream energy sector.
In a statement released in Lagos, Lanrewaju Baiyewu, the executive secretary and CEO of NLCGA, accused NUPENG of imposing exorbitant levies on LPG truck operators-reportedly charging up to ₦72,000 at various LPG terminals nationwide, a sharp increase from less than ₦30,000 two years prior. These unregulated fees, he argued, do not contribute to sectoral growth or national development.
Contrary to these claims, NUPENG’s general secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, refuted the allegations, labeling them as unfounded attempts to discredit the union and exclude it from ongoing industry matters.
The NLCGA highlighted that the estimated annual extortion linked to LPG operations alone surpasses ₦3 billion, placing a heavy financial strain on stakeholders within the industry.
Baiyewu further noted that over the past two years, the illegal charges levied by NUPENG-PTD for LPG loading have surged by more than 20%, even as government efforts continue to reduce LPG costs for consumers.
The ongoing conflict between NUPENG and Dangote Refinery primarily revolves around union representation rights. While NUPENG accuses the refinery of engaging in anti-union behavior, Dangote Refinery maintains its adherence to labor rights protected under the constitution.
Despite a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established between the parties, Baiyewu stated, “NUPENG’s persistent disruptions at the refinery risk triggering widespread fuel shortages and economic turmoil across the country.”
The NLCGA has pledged its support for Dangote Refinery in opposing NUPENG-PTD’s actions, which it views as harmful to the industry’s progress. The association called on the union to engage in constructive dialogue and honor existing agreements.
Baiyewu emphasized, “The detrimental impact of NUPENG’s conduct on Nigeria’s economic development cannot be overstated. It is crucial for government authorities to intervene decisively to curb these unlawful practices masquerading as petroleum-marketers-claim-68-percent-national-supply-reject-dangote-capacity/” title=”… Marketers Assert They Supply 68% of Nation's Fuel, Challenge Dangote's Capacity Claims”>union activities. Protecting the welfare of Nigerian workers and safeguarding the nation’s economic stability must be paramount, ensuring that union operations comply with legal frameworks and do not disrupt the economy.”
Responding to the accusations, Olawale told LEADERSHIP, “There is a significant campaign of misinformation and character assassination against us on social media, distorting facts and spreading falsehoods.”
