The National Union of Edible Oil Tanker Drivers of Nigeria (NUEOTDN) has suspended its planned industrial action. The strike was scheduled to begin on 23 September 2026. The union president, Ilias Aperun, announced the suspension in Lagos. He said the decision followed interventions by the Federal Government and the Department of State Services (DSS). The interventions aim to find a lasting resolution to issues affecting members’ safety and health. Discussions are ongoing.
Union jurisdiction disputes are common in Nigeria’s transport sector. In 2019, petroleum tanker drivers clashed with another union over loading rights. In 2021, similar disputes disrupted fuel distribution. The current dispute involves edible oil tanker drivers and the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of NUPENG. It also involves the Amalgamated Union of Wharf Truck Owners. NUEOTDN says PTD is encroaching on its operations. It also raised food-safety concerns. It wants dedicated tankers for edible oil. Using tankers previously used for petroleum products risks contamination.
Aperun directed all members and stakeholders to suspend any planned action. He urged them to maintain peace and normal operations pending further communication. He said the union remains committed to protecting public health and the welfare of its members. He also reaffirmed support for a peaceful resolution. He appreciated the Federal Government’s intervention. He urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the ongoing process. Further updates will be communicated as developments arise.
The suspension avoids immediate disruption. Edible oil supply chains are sensitive. A strike would affect supplies and prices. Consumers already face high food inflation. Transport disruption would worsen it. The government’s intervention is timely. The DSS involvement signals the dispute’s sensitivity. Food safety and public health are at stake.
The underlying issues remain unresolved. NUEOTDN still wants recognition. It wants clearer jurisdiction. It wants enforcement of food-safety rules. The government must address these. A suspension is not a settlement. It is a pause. If talks fail, the strike could resume.
Winners: Consumers, who avoid shortages. The Federal Government, which shows mediation. The DSS, which demonstrates relevance. NUEOTDN, which gains a platform. Losers: NUPENG and PTD, if they lose jurisdiction. The union, if talks fail. Consumers, if the strike resumes. Taxpayers, if the dispute drags on.
Bottom Line: The strike is suspended. Talks continue. The dispute is about jurisdiction and food safety. The government intervened. The pause is welcome. The resolution is not guaranteed. Both sides must compromise.