The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN, has suspended its strike action in the Western Zone, effective September 9. This decision comes after the organization reached agreements with the Dangote Group and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG. According to IPMAN’s Western Zone Chairman, Chief Oyewọle Akanni, the strike was called off following productive discussions that addressed concerns over alleged anti-labour and monopolistic practices by Dangote Group.
The agreement was reached after NUPENG raised issues regarding the company’s practices, which led to a strike action by IPMAN. However, following assurances from Dangote Group, IPMAN has decided to resume operations. Chief Akanni commended the unity and solidarity of IPMAN members during the industrial action, noting that their efforts were instrumental in advocating for fair competition in the downstream oil sector.
The suspension of the strike is expected to normalize the supply of petroleum products in the region. IPMAN has urged its members to resume their daily and operational activities without delay. The organization’s decision to call off the strike is seen as a positive step towards resolving the issues that led to the industrial action.
The dispute between IPMAN, NUPENG, and Dangote Group highlights the challenges faced by the downstream oil sector in Nigeria. The sector has experienced frequent disruptions due to disagreements over pricing, supply, and labor practices. The latest agreement between the parties is expected to bring stability to the sector and ensure a steady supply of petroleum products to consumers.
IPMAN’s Western Zone comprises several states in Nigeria, and the suspension of the strike is expected to have a positive impact on the economy of the region. The organization’s decision to resume operations is also expected to reduce the hardship faced by consumers due to the scarcity of petroleum products. With the strike called off, IPMAN members are expected to resume their normal activities, and the supply of petroleum products is expected to normalize in the coming days.
