N650b Debt: Oil Marketers Suspend Strike Threat As FG Vows To Pay

N650b Debt: Oil Marketers Suspend Strike Threat As FG Vows To Pay

The federal government has promised to offset the N650 billion debt owed independent oil marketers, prompting a withdrawal of the 14-day notice of strike issued by DAPPMAN and MOMAN.

Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) on Monday suspended their strike notice following an agreement reached with the government.

DAPPMAN’s chairman and executive secretary , Prince Dapo Abiodun, and Olufemi Adewole respectively stated this in a statement.

“DAPPMAN/MOMAN hereby suspend the issued 14 days ultimatum and use this medium to plead with all our staff under the various umbrella unions: NARTO, PENGASSAN, NUPENG/PTD to please bear with us whilst this approval for appropriation by the NASS is being deliberated on and processed, which we believe will not exceed two weeks in view of the adverse implications of any delays.

“All marketers are to ensure there is no disruption in the supply and distribution of PMS nationwide.

“Following the 14 day ultimatum to commence staff disengagement given to the federal government by DAPPMAN in the light of over N650 billion owed by FGN to petroleum marketers, a series of constructive engagements and meetings were held with NNPC, Ministry of Labour, the Presidency and DAPPMAN/MOMAN.

“Marketers have been reassured about the FGN’s commitment to make payment as evidenced by the request for approval for appropriation of same to the National Assembly.

“It is our hope that this approval will be given promptly and these long overdue payments made subsequently,” the statement read.