The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has raised the alarm over rising tension in the downstream oil and gas industry, warning that an industrial action could cripple petroleum supply and distribution nationwide, with dire consequences for households, businesses and government revenues.

In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Olufemi Adewole, the association stressed the importance of industrial harmony to safeguard jobs, ensure the stability of the sector and protect revenues critical to the Nigerian economy.

“As responsible stakeholders in this vital sector of the Nigerian economy, we recognise the central importance of industrial harmony to the stability of the industry, the protection of jobs, and the sustenance of revenues accruing to the nation. The potential impact of any strike on ordinary

Nigerians, businesses, and government finances cannot be overstated,” the statement read.
DAPPMAN appealed to all parties to exercise restraint and embrace constructive dialogue as the most effective way of resolving disagreements, while seeking an urgent intervention by the Federal Government to address the grievances of stakeholders.

“DAPPMAN, therefore, appeals to all parties involved to exercise utmost restraint and embrace constructive dialogue as the most effective means of resolving disagreements. In particular, DAPPMAN calls for the urgent intervention of the Federal Government in addressing the concerns of all aggrieved persons. We firmly believe that engagement at the roundtable will yield lasting solutions and prevent avoidable disruptions in the sector,” the association said.

The group reiterated its commitment to working with government, labour unions, investors and other stakeholders to ensure an uninterrupted supply of petroleum products across the country.

“Our Association’s consistent position has always been to collaborate with government, labour unions, investors, and other critical stakeholders, to create a win-win situation that sustains investment, protects workers’ rights, and guarantees uninterrupted supply of petroleum products nationwide,” it added.