NUPENG gives update on nationwide strike

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has suspended its planned nationwide strike.

This followed intervention of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC.

NUPENG had threatened an industrial action to compel Chevron Nigeria Limited, CNL, honour an agreement it reached with the union on June 20.

A statement on Friday by NUPENG’s President and General Secretary, Williams Akporeha and Afolabi Olawale, directed members to go about their normal duties.

It read: “The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) wishes to inform the rank and file members of the Union and the general public that following the intervention of Mallam Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director and his management team to avert the proposed industrial action of NUPENG over the blatant breach of agreement reached with the Union by Chevron Nigeria and its Contractor and considering the fact that appreciable progress is being made as discussions continue, that the Union hereby suspends with immediate effect the planned industrial action slated for next week.

“It should be put on records that this abrupt suspension became inevitable due largely to the timely intervention of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) having engaged NUPENG and all concerned stakeholders at two separate meetings on Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd day of August 2019, to correct the anomalies and ensure that the agreement is respected.

“All our members are directed to step down the RED ALERT message, continue rendering their normal and lawful services to the nation while members of the general public are also enjoined to avoid any panic action/measure as we assure all and sundry of normal supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country.

“It should be noted however, that talks are still ongoing between NUPENG and all affected stakeholders to amicably resolve the matter putting into consideration the collateral economic damage the industrial unrest could possibly lead to in the country if not immediately nipped in the bud.”