The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has raised alarm over what it described as a desperate plot by powerful interests to destabilize its Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch through a fictitious group parading as “PTD Elders.”
In a strongly worded statement issued Sunday night, NUPENG President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Comrade Afolabi Olawale, dismissed the so-called forum as fraudulent and unknown to the union’s constitution.
“There is no such organ as PTD Elders in NUPENG. These faceless individuals are agents of capitalists with filthy wealth, determined to manipulate and mislead the public. Their agenda is simple: to break our ranks and weaken the union,” the statement read.
NUPENG stressed that the only legitimate leadership of the PTD branch remains the team led by Comrade Augustine Egbon as National Chairman. It warned stakeholders and the media against engaging with the impostors.
“Any person or group operating under the name of PTD Elders or PTD Leaders is illegitimate and acting with criminal intent,” the union insisted.
The union urged the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to move swiftly against the impersonators.
“We demand the immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of these fraudulent actors. Their activities are nothing short of criminal sabotage against organized labour and the oil and gas sector,” the statement said.
NUPENG linked the emergence of the fake group to what it described as a sustained campaign by business interests to hijack or destroy the union. It recalled the violent attacks on its leaders in Abuja in November 2023, noting that the perpetrators are still facing trial.
“This blackmail is the continuation of evil machinations to exterminate NUPENG at all costs. But as always, our members remain vigilant and united,” the union declared.
The development comes at a time of heightened tension between labour unions and the Dangote Refinery, further fueling speculation of a wider struggle over control and influence in Nigeria’s strategic oil and gas industry.