Fuel Scarcity Looms in Nigeria as PETROAN Plans Strike Over Alleged Dangote Monopoly
- PETROAN has threatened a three-day suspension of fuel sales over alleged monopolistic practices in the downstream oil sector
- They accused Dangote Refinery of adopting aggressive business strategies that could eliminate smaller operators and cause job losses
- The association has called for government intervention while assuring that the protest will be lawful and aimed at promoting fair competition
Legit.ng journalist Victor Enengedi has over a decade's experience covering Energy, MSMEs, Technology, Banking and the Economy.
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has issued a three-day notice of suspension of fuel lifting and sales, scheduled to start on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, in protest against alleged monopolistic practices in the downstream petroleum sector.
Source: UGC
PETROAN had previously cautioned against Dangote’s forward integration strategy, arguing that it could trigger massive job losses and entrench market dominance.
The association also expressed worry over the company’s acquisition of 4,000 CNG-powered tankers, warning that the move might threaten the survival of current truck drivers and transport operators.
PETROAN strike targeted against Dangote monopoly
In a statement signed by the association’s National PRO, Dr. Joseph Obele, and released in Abuja, PETROAN’s President, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, emphasised that the planned action would be peaceful and within the law.
He noted that the strike is aimed at safeguarding fair competition, defending workers’ welfare, and stabilising fuel prices across the country.
Dr. Gillis-Harry called on President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), the NNPC Group CEO, the Chief Executive of NMDPRA, the DG of DSS, and the Inspector-General of Police to urgently step in to prevent severe hardship for citizens.
He added that since PETROAN pump attendants are registered under NUPENG, they would not be at work during the strike, warning station owners against penalising their staff.
The association expressed strong concerns over the business approach of Dangote Refinery, warning that unchecked dominance could force private depot operators, modular refiners, marketers, and truck owners out of business, thereby fueling unemployment and economic instability.
PETROAN urged Nigerians not to be misled by short-term incentives that could eventually replicate the monopolistic scenario seen in the cement industry.
Following an emergency meeting, the association resolved to continue consultations until Monday.
If no progress is made, all member outlets nationwide will commence the strike on Tuesday morning, with a 120-man compliance team deployed to ensure order and safeguard facilities.
Source: UGC
PETROAN reiterated its role as a key stakeholder in the oil and gas sector and pledged to work with other players to encourage fair competition, protect jobs, and create an enabling environment for sustainable industry growth and economic benefits.
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) declared plans to commence a nationwide strike on Monday, September 8, 2025.
The union said the industrial action is in response to what it considers anti-labour practices associated with the introduction of CNG-powered trucks by Dangote Refinery.
Dangote receives 4,000 CNG trucks
Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that Dangote Refinery has taken delivery of 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks, an initiative set to transform fuel distribution nationwide.
Valued at approximately N720 billion, the new fleet represents one of the most significant investments in Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector in recent times.
The company explained that the project is designed to cut logistics costs, improve supply efficiency, and help reduce the pump price of petrol for consumers.
Source: Legit.ng
