Nigerians woke up to fresh fuel price chaos on Monday as depots owned by Dangote and other major marketers were forced to halt operations following the nationwide strike declared by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
The industrial action, which kicked off despite last-minute interventions by the Federal Government, has triggered panic buying and long queues at filling stations across major cities. Early reports from Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt indicate that pump prices have already jumped in some outlets, with black market operators taking advantage of the looming scarcity.
Why NUPENG is on Strike
The strike comes after a heated face-off between NUPENG and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The union accuses the refinery of anti-labour practices, including allegedly preventing newly recruited drivers for its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks from joining any union.
NUPENG insists this is an attack on workers’ rights and has vowed to keep depots shut until Dangote and other operators comply with labour laws.
Fuel Prices on the Rise
As depots remain under lock and key, many marketers have either adjusted pump prices upward or suspended sales entirely. In some areas, petrol is already being sold between ₦850–₦1,200 per litre, while queues are stretching for hours.
Transporters are warning of imminent hikes in fares if the strike lingers, meaning ordinary Nigerians could face another wave of hardship.
Government Steps In
The Minister of Labour, Muhammad Dingyadi, has summoned Dangote, NUPENG leaders, and other stakeholders to a high-level meeting in Abuja today. Officials are desperate to prevent a full-blown fuel crisis that could cripple the economy.
However, NUPENG President Williams Akporeha insists there’s “no going back” on the strike until their demands are met.
What This Means for Nigerians
If the standoff is not resolved quickly, experts warn that:
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Petrol prices will skyrocket further.
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Transport costs will rise.
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Businesses relying on generators will struggle to stay afloat.
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Inflation could worsen across the board.
For now, Nigerians are bracing for yet another round of fuel scarcity — one that could test patience and pockets across the nation.
