Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, PETROAN, has accused the Association of Distributors and Transporters of Petroleum Products, ADITOP, of unlawfully disrupting the oil supply chain in Rivers State.
To this end, PETROAN has called on the Rivers State government to declare a state of emergency over the activities of ADITOP, which it claims are causing a severe crisis in the state’s oil and gas sector.
According to the National PRO of PETROAN, Dr Joseph Obele, ADITOP has been attempting to penetrate the oil and gas industry without following the proper procedures, effectively bypassing the endorsement of key industry stakeholders.
Obele claimed the group’s actions have triggered a conflict with the Petroleum Tanker Drivers, PTD branch of NUPENG, which led to the suspension of petroleum products lifting in Rivers State since January 16th, 2025.
“The shutdown has brought the state’s oil and gas sector to a standstill, with dire economic implications.”
PETROAN emphasized that no new group can gain recognition in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector without the endorsement of critical stakeholders such as the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG.
PETROAN further expressed deep concern that ADITOP’s actions were threatening to destabilize the industry and cause a fuel scarcity in Rivers State.
“It is impossible for any new group to gain recognition in the Nigerian oil and gas sector without the endorsement of stakeholders led by the Honourable Minister of Petroleum (Oil). NUPENG is a critical stakeholder and cannot be neglected by any group trying to gain entrance.
“If the crisis is not resolved quickly, it can lead to serious fuel scarcity in Rivers State, causing hardship to residents and further economic losses. Therefore, prompt action is necessary to prevent this scenario.”
Obele further said that Dr. Billy Gillis Harry, the National President of PETROAN, has directed all members in Rivers State to show solidarity with NUPENG and PTD in their efforts to resolve the conflict and restore normalcy to the oil and gas sector.
The association called on the Rivers State government and other stakeholders to take swift action to prevent further disruptions to the oil sector, as prolonged inaction could result in billions in revenue losses, loss of lives, and damage to properties.
