A number of roadside petrol distributors emerged within the Calabar metropolis on Monday as petrol stations shut down operations in solidarity with the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
A Information Company of Nigeria (NAN) survey across the Calabar metropolis on Tuesday confirmed that many petrol stations weren’t open for enterprise.
NUPENG had directed its members to start an indefinite nationwide strike over alleged anti-labour practices by Dangote Refinery.
The union had accused the refinery of planning to render no fewer than 250,000 members jobless following alleged transfer to rent non-affiliated drivers.
Some petrol station managers who spoke to NAN stated that the closure of their enterprise premises was in compliance with the NUPENG’s directive.
At a preferred filling station within the Atimbo space of Calabar, the supervisor, who most popular anonymity, stated, “We had been ordered by our union to droop providers, and that’s what we’re doing.
“We had been informed that any station discovered allotting petrol to the general public risked being fined as much as N1 million, so we’re closed for now,” the supervisor stated.
Some motorists who spoke to NAN described the event as disheartening and pointless.
Aniekan Edet, a business bus driver, stated the event would find yourself bringing untold hardship on members of the general public.
“We now purchase petrol above the accredited pump value from roadside sellers. This can finally add to the price of transportation if the scenario persists,” he stated.
Adebisi Adelabu, a resident, stated that it was flawed for the authorities to deal with industrial issues in ways in which negatively impression the general public.
READ ALSO: Strike: Talks with NUPENG deadlocked as Dangote Refinery representatives stage walkout
“I’ve no petrol in my automotive, my intention was to refuel at a close-by station in order that I can take my youngsters to high school. I’m stranded now.
“If I don’t get petrol right this moment, it signifies that I can’t transfer out tomorrow, that is annoying and irritating,” she stated.
In the meantime, NUPENG on Tuesday night suspended its strike following an settlement with the administration of Dangote Refinery to recognise employees’ rights to unionise, Channels TV reported.
