Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers has advised its members to stay off the roads at night due to increasing security threats and unsafe road conditions.
Gatekeepers News reports that the directive was issued during the union’s national executive council (NEC) meeting held in Warri over the weekend, where Mathias Ote was confirmed as the substantive national chairman. He takes over from Augustine Egbon, who passed away last year.
Addressing members, Ote warned that night journeys have become more dangerous due to criminal activities and deteriorating infrastructure.
“The risks associated with night driving are increasing. Many criminal activities, such as hijacking, kidnapping, and fatal accidents, occur at night, worsened by the deteriorating condition of some roads,” he said.
“I urge all our members to desist from night driving because if anything happens, you will bear the consequences.”
In his first remarks as chairman, Ote paid tribute to his predecessor, describing him as a leader who made a lasting impact on the union and its members.
“It is indeed very painful to lose such a great and exemplary leader who impacted positively on the lives of his people and left an indelible mark on the union,” Ote said.
He also expressed gratitude to the leadership of NUPENG and NEC members for the confidence placed in him, promising to lead with dedication.
“There are many capable hands that could lead this great branch, but in your collective decision, I was elected as chairman. What I have to offer in appreciation is good leadership, and I will spare nothing in providing it,” he said.
Also speaking, Salimon Oladiti reinforced the warning, stressing the importance of safety. He noted that drivers must value their lives, adding that when accidents occur, truck owners may see you as a liability.
Oladiti further urged tanker drivers to comply strictly with safety measures and avoid travelling at night.
