The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has condemned what it described as a coordinated campaign of blackmail, misinformation and outright lies targeted at tarnishing its image on social media. This was disclosed in a circular to members.
NUPENG dismissed as “pure propaganda” claims that its officials were aiding smuggling, collecting ₦1 on every litre of petroleum products brought into Nigeria, or working as part of a “cabal” that allegedly sabotaged government-owned refineries.
According to the union, “There is a lot of blackmail, distortion of facts, and misinformation circulating on social media about us. Those behind these attacks are pained by our victory in the unionisation battles against them, and they are out for revenge by maligning our reputation and activities”.
The union also advised its members not to be discouraged by negative stories spread across social media. “Please, do not be discouraged by the negative stories being spread. Social media is full of uninformed people who have access to phones and data and can post anything without facts or accountability”.
NUPENG also noted that while other unions like the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational Institutions (NASU), Nigeria Medical Association(NMA), and others can strike for years without drawing public anger, provided their actions do not disrupt businesses, movement, or income, the moment tanker drivers take action, the backlash is immediate.
The union further stressed that dues paid to NUPENG are used for: Safety training, which includes quarterly programmes in every zone, conducted with the FRSC, police, fire service, state VIO, and other traffic enforcement agencies, health insurance, highway security; and union administration.
