Dangote Accuses NUPENG of Imposing Hefty Truck Charges, Driving Up Fuel Prices

Dangote Accuses NUPENG of Imposing Hefty Truck Charges, Driving Up Fuel Prices

Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has accused the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) of collecting up to N50,000 on every truck that loads fuel at his refinery. According to Dangote, these charges are passed on to consumers, further increasing fuel prices .

The allegations come after NUPENG shut down depots and briefly blockaded the Dangote refinery over disputes surrounding drivers’ unionization. Although the Federal Government intervened and brokered a memorandum of understanding, tensions remain high despite a court order barring NUPENG from further blockades .

NUPENG President Williams Akporeha neither confirmed nor denied the allegations, instead responding cryptically. Industry experts have questioned the legality of NUPENG’s alleged levies, arguing that unions shouldn’t collect fees for fuel loading .

The job of a union is to assist its members and protect their jobs, but it doesn’t have a right to tax or collect fees for fuel loading. Is NUPENG now a tax-collecting agency?”
They argue that such hidden costs undermine the government’s efforts to stabilize prices and encourage alternative fuels like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).To avoid disruptions and ensure independence from third-party transporters and unions, Dangote Group has invested in 4,000 CNG-powered trucks for petroleum product distribution nationwide. This move aims to reduce costs and demonstrate commitment to Nigeria’s energy transition .

Experts urge the Federal Government to:
Look into the claims of NUPENG’s alleged levies and determine their legitimacy.
Create clear guidelines for truck loading charges to balance worker protection and consumer interests.
Ensure that fuel pricing is transparent and fair, shielding consumers from arbitrary costs.