The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas, NUPENG, has accused the Dangote Group of using its free premium motor spirit distribution initiative as a ploy to crush its members and other businesses in the country’s downstream sector. According to NUPENG’s National President, Williams Akporeha, the move is a “Greek gift” intended to deceive Nigerians.

Dangote Group recently announced a new retail and ex-depot price template, which resulted in a drop in petrol retail prices across locations. The company also launched a fuel distribution scheme, which includes free nationwide delivery of petroleum products to dispensing stations. However, NUPENG claims that this initiative is aimed at forcing other employers of petroleum truck drivers out of business, leaving only those employed by Dangote Group’s transport company, DTCDA.

NUPENG had previously threatened to embark on a fresh strike, alleging that Dangote Refinery reneged on its resolutions. The union has been at loggerheads with the Dangote Group over issues related to worker unionization and employment. The Dangote Refinery has dismissed NUPENG’s claims, stating that it has not refused its workers the right to unionize.

The dispute between NUPENG and the Dangote Group has significant implications for the Nigerian oil and gas industry. The union’s allegations suggest that the Dangote Group’s initiatives may be aimed at consolidating its market share and squeezing out smaller players. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the conflict will be resolved and what impact it will have on the industry as a whole.

The Nigerian oil and gas sector has been plagued by issues related to pricing, employment, and worker unionization. The current dispute between NUPENG and the Dangote Group is a manifestation of these deeper issues. As the sector continues to evolve, it is essential that stakeholders work together to address these challenges and create a more stable and equitable environment for all players.

In the meantime, NUPENG has urged Nigerians to be cautious of the Dangote Group’s initiatives, which it claims are designed to deceive and manipulate the market. The union’s warnings suggest that the conflict is far from over and that further developments can be expected in the coming days and weeks.