As Nigerians grapple with the rising costs of petroleum products, the Association of Distributors and Transporters of Petroleum Products (ADITOP) has voiced strong opposition to the arbitrary charges and regulations that plague the supply chain, staging a major march in Lagos to advocate for a more equitable and sustainable industry.
The group held a march in Lagos to address the ongoing challenges posed by arbitrary charges and regulations imposed by various unions and associations at petrol depots and tank farms, as well as on the roads.
ADITOP South West Zone Secretary, Ayo Abiola, in a chat with the media, said ADITOP, established in 2012 under Nigerian law, aims to uphold the principle of equity within the petroleum products distribution value chain.
He said the group is taking a firm stand against the exploitation of its members and the consuming public, condemning practices that hinder fair business operations and inflate costs for consumers.
“We refuse to be complicit in the activities of associations that ignore the pressing issues plaguing our industry.
“Today, we declare ‘Enough is Enough!’ We will no longer pay levies to unions beyond what is legally required, as we reclaim our right to manage our members’ welfare and livelihoods,” he said.
The association emphasised its commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government and other responsible unions to reform the petroleum industry. By discouraging unjust strike actions driven by greed, ADITOP aims to foster a business environment that prioritizes the needs of consumers and supports fair practices.
ADITOP also expressed gratitude to participants of the march, acknowledging the support from various stakeholders, including the leadership of the Market Traders Association of Nigeria (MATAN) and BENHAM Integrated Resources. Together, they aim to combat the negative implications of unscrupulous activities within the oil sector that adversely affect the Nigerian populace.
(Guardian)
