OGUN TRANSPORT UNIONS BACK ABIODUN'S SPECIAL TASK FORCE TO COMBAT SHARP PRACTICES IN PETROLEUM SECTOR

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OGUN TRANSPORT UNIONS BACK ABIODUN’S SPECIAL TASK FORCE TO COMBAT SHARP PRACTICES IN PETROLEUM SECTOR

The Ogun State Government’s commitment to tackling unethical practices in the petroleum sector has received robust support from its key partners in the transportation sector.

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) have commended the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun for establishing a Special Task Force to monitor and curb sharp practices at filling stations.

According to a statement by a media aide, Tayo Mabeweje, this initiative aims to address fraudulent activities such as dispensing less fuel than paid for, which has negatively impacted transport fares and increased the financial burden on residents.

The unions have praised this decisive action as a necessary step toward ensuring fairness and protecting citizens amidst current economic challenges.

Alhaji Mustapha Adewale, Chairman of the NURTW in Ogun State, applauded the government’s proactive approach and emphasized the importance of the Task Force.

As a petrol dealer himself, Adewale acknowledged the prevalence of sharp practices, such as selling seven litres of fuel for every ten paid for, and described the Task Force as a vital intervention to protect the public from such exploitation.

“The government’s initiative is timely and commendable. Instead of criticizing, IPMAN should address these unethical practices within their ranks and support this effort to safeguard the public.

The Task Force is about protecting the people, not harassment,” Adewale stated.

Similarly, Comrade Tiwalade Akingbade, Secretary of RTEAN, highlighted the importance of the Task Force in ensuring transparency and fairness.

He criticized the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) for opposing the initiative and urged them to collaborate with the government to address the issues instead of issuing threats to disrupt fuel supply.

“This Task Force is a response to the hardships people face due to unscrupulous practices. IPMAN should support these efforts and verify the actions of its members to ensure compliance rather than resisting the government’s noble intentions,” Akingbade said.

Both transport unions lauded the administration’s broader efforts to alleviate economic hardship, such as the free conversion of commercial vehicles to CNG, which has reduced costs for many transport operators.

The partnership between the Ogun State Government and its transport unions is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing societal challenges.

By aligning with the government, the NURTW and RTEAN have demonstrated their commitment to justice, equity, and the economic well-being of Ogun State residents.

It is expected that IPMAN will also join this effort to sanitize the petroleum sector and reaffirm their dedication to serving the public responsibly.