The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has warned the National Union of Edible Oil Tanker Drivers of Nigeria (NUEOTDN) over what it described as malicious and misleading allegations against its operations.
In a statement, NUPENG said its attention was drawn to claims circulated by NUEOTDN, published in the online edition of TheNation newspaper of Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
The union described the allegations as baseless, misleading and deliberately intended to create panic within Nigeria’s product supply and distribution chain.
NUPENG urged the Federal Government, law enforcement agencies, regulatory authorities and other critical stakeholders to treat the publication as an act of economic sabotage.
It called on NUEOTDN to desist from overheating the polity and maligning the reputation of NUPENG.
According to NUPENG, its leadership has consistently sought peaceful resolution of disputes between NUEOTDN and the Amalgamated Union of Wharf Truck Owners of Nigeria / Wharf 302 Products and Beverages Association of Tanker Drivers, who operate dedicated food-grade trucks.
The union said NUEOTDN has repeatedly rejected conciliation efforts and continues to spread misinformation.
NUPENG stated that its operations are conducted in strict compliance with all relevant safety, environmental and regulatory frameworks.
The Union said it works closely with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and other statutory agencies to ensure its practices meet high standards of public safety and consumer protection.
It added that its drivers undergo regular training, inspections and certification to guarantee adherence to national and international best practices.
The Union categorically condemned the claims by NUEOTDN and reaffirmed that NUPENG remains a legally recognized and responsible union committed to professionalism, integrity and the welfare of Nigerians.
It called on the Federal Government, regulators, law enforcement agencies and the public to disregard the claims and recognize NUPENG as a union that stands for responsibility, compliance and national development.
NUPENG further emphasized that any dedicated petroleum tanker found engaging in illegal activities, particularly in the lifting or distribution of edible products, must be apprehended by law enforcement agencies and made to face the full weight of the law.
It stressed that it remains a law-abiding union and will not condone any member involved in acts of illegality.
