The tanker drivers’ other grievances include the federal government’s alleged refusal to enforce the mandatory installation of safety valves in all petroleum trucks to prevent the inflammable contents from spilling over in the event of a road accident, as well as an alleged continued abuse of the tonnage capacity of petroleum trucks by marketers and transporters across the country.

Recall that PTD leaders issued an October 8, 2021 deadline to the Federal Government to address these pending issues failing, which members would down tools and resume the nationwide strike that was originally scheduled for March 27, 2021, but was postponed after assurances from the government that the issues would be resolved.

According to an investigation, not only had the government and its agents failed to reach out to the union after the strike notice was issued on September 25 and October 7, but there had also been no attempts by the government or its agents to reach out to the union.

“I have nothing to tell you other than that our ultimatum will expire tomorrow,” a PTD official told Vanguard on the condition of anonymity (Friday, October 8). Nothing has changed as of today, Thursday, October 7. The ultimatum is still in effect.”

“The communiqué we issued on September 25, 2021, in Enugu has explained our next line of action,” he said of what will happen after the expiration. Remember, we’ve been on a work-to-rule action in accordance with the communiqué since Monday, September 27. If you’re curious, the nationwide launch might happen this weekend or any time after today (Friday).”

Leaders of PTD had in a communiqué issued at the end of its Branch Executive Council, BEC, meeting in Enugu, members resolved to begin a work-to-rule action from Monday, September 27.

Work-to-rule is a method of protest in which workers dress in distinctive clothing (black or red) or bring leaves to work as a symbol of protest.

“Council in session observed with extreme worry and sadness the dismal and disgraceful circumstances of the Nigeria roadways in spite of repeated calls and warnings we have issued to the various layers of government,” according to the communiqué. For the Petroleum Tanker Drivers, these roadways have become death traps and dens of truck hijackers. On an hourly basis, our people are losing their lives and livelihoods.

“The list of these routes is extensive, and Petroleum Tanker Drivers have faced terrifying situations while performing selfless national services to ensure delivery of Petroleum products to homes and factories in every nook and cranny of this country, day and night, in good and poor weather.”

“The Branch Executive Council in session reviewed with sadness, pains, and deep worries the suspension of the Branch Executive Council’s ultimatum issued on the 27th March 2021 over the increasing rate of fire incidences involving petroleum trucks with accompanying massive destruction of lives and properties of our members and the general public,” according to the communiqué on Trucks Safety Valve.