NUPENG Denounces Smear Campaign, Refutes Smuggling Accusations

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has strongly pushed back against what it calls a “deliberate and coordinated smear campaign” aimed at damaging its reputation through false claims and social media propaganda.

In a recent circular to its members, the union dismissed allegations that its officials were involved in smuggling petroleum products or collecting illegal levies — specifically, a claim that they receive ₦1 for every litre of fuel imported into the country. NUPENG labelled these allegations as “pure propaganda” designed to discredit its operations and undermine its influence.

According to the union, these accusations are part of a broader backlash by individuals and groups angered by NUPENG’s success in unionising workers across the petroleum industry. “Those behind these attacks are seeking revenge,” the union stated. “They are peddling misinformation and half-truths because they feel threatened by our growing strength.”

The union urged members to remain calm and not be swayed by what it described as baseless narratives spreading online. “Much of what circulates on social media is driven by ignorance, malice, or a desire to mislead,” the union said, citing recent examples of unfounded allegations including links to a “cabal” allegedly responsible for sabotaging government refineries.

NUPENG emphasized that the operations of the downstream sector are complex and largely informal, involving a wide network of workers — from tanker drivers to depot staff — many of whom lack formal employment structures. It pointed out that several trade associations, including the Truck Owners Association, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), and the Major Marketers Association, are active in the same space and also collect dues from their members.

However, NUPENG’s Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch, being highly visible, often becomes the target of criticism. “Other unions and associations are rarely seen, but because our members are on the frontlines — and because our strikes affect transportation and economic activity — we bear the brunt of public anger,” the union stated.

NUPENG also pushed back against suggestions that it acts alone at depots. It clarified that its representatives often collect dues on behalf of various associations and stakeholders, including truck owners and marketers, all of whom are required to make payments when loading products.

The union further explained how its collected dues are utilised:

• Safety Training: Regular training conducted in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), police, fire service, and other agencies.
• Health Insurance: A dedicated scheme with Leadway Health Insurance for tanker drivers, who face long hours and hazardous conditions without employer-provided medical coverage.
• Security Operations: Mobilising law enforcement to protect drivers from threats such as hijackings and kidnappings along major highways.
• Union Administration: Supporting the daily running of the union and its obligations to members.

“Employers and other vested interests may resent negotiating with us, but our influence is built on the service and protection we provide our members,” the union added.

NUPENG concluded by asserting that powerful individuals behind these smear efforts are attempting to dominate the petroleum distribution value chain. While many stakeholders — including major and independent marketers — support the union’s stance, they remain silent due to the sensitive nature of the issue.

“The so-called ‘depot collections scandal’ is nothing more than a tool of blackmail,” the union declared. “We are dealing with a public that has already made up its mind — but we will continue to stand firm in the face of lies and misinformation.”