By Ishaya Ibrahim, News Editor
An impending paralysis of the country was averted on Sunday when petroleum tanker drivers called off their planned strike.
The drivers threatened to embark on strike midnight Sunday.
They were protesting the bad state of Nigerian roads.
The suspension of the strike came after intensive engagement involving the leadership of the PTD, NNPC officials and other government agencies.
NNPC hailed the maturity and patriotism of the leadership of the PTD in calling off the strike; and reiterated its resolve to actively participate in finding a quick and effective solution to the concerns raised by the tanker drivers.
Meanwhile, the leadership of the PTD said they called off the strike because of an agreement reached with government.
A statement by Comrade William Akporeha and Comrade Afolabi Olawale, President and General Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers respectively, said their decision to call off the strike was predicated on their hope that the government will be faithful to the agreements reached.
They, however, warned that they will not hesitate to re-commence the action without any notice if the understanding reached with government are not fully implemented within the timeframe agreed.
“The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers hereby announce the suspension of the intended withdrawal of the services of Petroleum Tanker Drivers earlier scheduled to commence midnight of Sunday, October 10, 2021,” the statement read.
The Union said their move followed the understanding they reached with the management of NNPC at a meeting held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Sunday, October 10, and the expected outcome of the follow-up meeting scheduled to hold on Tuesday, October 12, in Abuja.
“The suspension of our planned action is predicated on our belief that the understanding reached with the government today as well as at meeting of Tuesday 12th, October 2021 will be fulfilled to the letters.
“We wish to clearly make it known to all well meaning Nigerians that have variously appealed to us on these issues that our plan was not intended to inflict further pains on Nigerians but to ensure observance of minimum safety on our highways for the good of lives and properties.
“We are well aware of the impact our actions usually have on the people, businesses and the nation at large but we cannot continue to watch as things continue to degenerate in our industry.
“In the light of the above, the Union will not hesitate to re-commence the action without any notice if the understanding reached in these two meetings are not fully implemented within the timeframe agreed.
“With this, our Petroleum Tanker Drivers are hereby directed to continue providing services for the efficient and effective distribution of Petroleum products to homes and workplaces across the country.
“Our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong.”