We Won’t Go On Strike – PENGASSAN, NUPENG

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has said its members would not go on strike.

Depot owners had threatened to shut down services over issues bordering on non-payment of outstanding subsidy claims.

The statement by the union came at a time many Nigerians have braced themselves for the usual end of the year scarcity associated with petroleum products in the country.

But, in a statement signed by PENGASSAN President, Comrade Francis Johnson, the union noted that after series of engagements with government representatives and marketers, coupled with the on-going meetings, consultations and negotiations between the government and oil marketers, they have been assured by the government that the first part of the debt payment will be made not later than December 14, 2018.

“With this commitment and firm assurance from the government representatives, we have resolved to hold down on taking any action on the issues to allow government fulfil its pledge,” Johnson said.

While assuring Nigerians that the decision was in the best interest of the nation, the industry as well as job security of its members, the union urged the public to refrain from panic buying or stock piling of petroleum products.

“Our resolve and decision are purely nationalistic, patriotic and in the overall interest of our great country and we plead for understanding of the general public and all parties in this matter,’’ Johnson said.

Also, the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) President, Comrade Williams Akporeha, has urged his members to remain calm and continue to provide their services as required always.

The union leader assured his members and the public that the decision was based on upholding the overall interest of the nation, the industry as well as job security of its members. He urged the public to refrain from panic buying or stockpiling of petroleum products.