Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN has called off its strike action in Akwa Ibom State, following the intervention of Governor Pastor Umo Eno.
Recall that IPMAN had directed all its members to withdraw their services in Akwa Ibom since Tuesday, over the alleged confiscation of two PMS-laden trucks at Ibaka by some JTF personnel.
The strike which had led to the scarcity of petroleum products in the state as fuel prices skyrocketed to N1,900 per litre, saw the Nigerian Labour Congress also directing workers in Akwa Ibom State to withdraw their services and stay at home, due to the impact of the strike.
Announcing the suspension of the strike on Thursday, IPMAN Chairman, Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Francis Udoyen, said the halt was due to the intervention of Governor Umo Eno today after a critical meeting with officials of the association and other stakeholders.
Udoyen said, “The Coordinating Unit of IPMAN has from today suspended its earlier withdrawal of services (Strike Action) which began on Tuesday, September 24th, 2024.
“The call for the halting of the strike action is due to the intervention of the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno today after a critical meeting with IPMAN officials.”
Meanwhile, Governor Umo Eno during the meeting with leaders of key unions in the petroleum sector to address the issues that led to the strike, announced plans to establish a petroleum depot in the State.
The Governor was briefed on the two petroleum trucks confiscated and detained
in Mbo Local Government Area by the JTF operatives since May 2024.
While acknowledging that the matter falls outside his immediate jurisdiction, the Governor directed the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways to liaise with the relevant authorities to ascertain the facts of the case.
He expressed his commitment to exploring the establishment of a petroleum depot in the state.
