By Onuora Aninwobodo
PETROAN, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association, is urging the Rivers State government to declare a state of emergency on the activities of ADITOP, a new group trying to enter the oil and gas sector without following proper procedures. ADITOP stands for Association of Distributors and Transporters of Petroleum Products, and PETROAN is concerned that they’re using Rivers State as a testing ground for their nationwide expansion.
According to PETROAN, it’s impossible for any new group to gain recognition in the Nigerian oil and gas sector without the endorsement of stakeholders led by the honourable minister Petroleum (oil). However, NUPENG is a critical stakeholder can not neglected by any group trying to gain entrance.
NUPENG has already suspended all petroleum products lifting in Rivers State due to an internal union crisis between ADITOP and PTD.
The situation has led to a shutdown of the oil and gas sector in Rivers State since January 16th, with potential severe economic implications for the state.
PETROAN is advising the government and stakeholders to intervene quickly to resolve the crisis and prevent any disasters that could lead to billions of losses in revenue, lives, and properties.
If the crisis is not resolved quickly, it can lead to serious fuel scarcity in Rivers State, causing hardship to residents and further economic losses. Therefore, prompt action is necessary to prevent this scenario.
In a show of unity, the National President of PETROAN Dr Billy Gillis Harry has directed all members of PETROAN in Rivers State to show solidarity to NUPENG and PTD.
This directive is aimed at supporting the two unions in their efforts to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy to the oil and gas sector in the state.
Signed: Dr Joseph Obele.
National PRO, PETROAN.
