The National Executive leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has assured uninterrupted supply of petroleum products to ensure smooth running of the general elections.
This is even as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has debunked reports that it had directed its members to reduce petroleum pump price from N145 to N140 as part of the association’s contribution towards encouraging voters to participate in the elections.
In a press statement obtained by Shipping Position Daily and signed by NUPENG President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, the union directed its members across the country to remain law abiding and exercise their civic responsibilities during the elections.
Close sources who spoke with Shipping Position Daily at one of the depots in Lagos last week report that many of the tanker drivers have vacated Lagos to their various states to participate in the election. Many of the drivers could not also return last week, even after the initial cancellation of the polls.
The NUPENG however said “the leadership wishes to notify the teeming members who traverse the nooks and crannies of Nigeria in refining and distribution of petroleum products for domestic, commercial and industrial purposes to remain unfettered in discharging their legitimate duties so that the electoral process will be smooth and hitch-free”
“NUPENG will not deter in contributing its quota in sustaining and promoting the unity and corporate existence of Nigeria as an indivisible entity; determined to avoid any conduct or behaviour that will endanger the political stability and national security of Nigeria”.'
Meanwhile, IPMAN national president, Engr. Sanusi Fari said he has not ordered that marketers should sell at N140 per litre. Fari called on its members to continue to render their services to the public in view of the one week postponement of the elections and not to sell petrol (PMS) above the federal government’s approved pump price of N145.
He further reiterated that “members who wish to sell at any price below N145 are free to do so, because the current government policy makes the product available and encourages price competition.’’ Fari also lauded the All Progressives Congress (APC) led-federal government efforts aimed at ensuring stability in the supply of petroleum products.
“Unlike before when marketers wander about in search of product which makes it more expensive for them and the consumers,’’ he said. He, however, warned his members not to hoard petroleum products because of the election postponement.
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