The Association of Distributors and Transporters of Petroleum Products (ADITOP) has publicly criticized the unfair fees that various unions are imposing on its members, particularly at fuel depots.
On Friday, the association held a march in Lagos to highlight this issue, stating that these extra charges are driving up the prices of petroleum products. They are determined to stop paying these illegal fees to any union. Ayo Abiola, who is the Secretary for ADITOP’s South West Zone, explained that the purpose of the march was to advocate for fairness and transparency in the way petroleum is distributed.
ADITOP was established in 2012 in Nigeria to promote fairness within the distribution of petroleum products. During the rally, Abiola emphasized that they are standing up against the unfair practices that various unions and associations are enforcing at petrol depots, tank farms, and even on the roads. He pointed out that these practices not only exploit the distributors but also negatively affect consumers by increasing costs.
He declared that ADITOP will no longer participate in the activities of unions that overlook the serious issues facing the industry. “Today, we say ‘Enough is Enough!’ We will not pay any fees to unions that go beyond what is legally required. We want to take back control over the welfare and livelihoods of our members,” he stated.
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The association also expressed its commitment to working with the federal government and other responsible unions to reform the petroleum industry. They aim to discourage unjust strikes that are motivated by greed and to create a business environment that prioritizes the needs of consumers and supports fair practices.
Abiola thanked everyone who participated in the march and recognized the support from various groups, including the Market Traders Association of Nigeria and BENHAM Integrated Resources. Together, they are working to fight against the harmful effects of dishonest practices in the oil sector that negatively impact the Nigerian people.
“We are dedicated to creating a better Nigeria by standing against exploitation in our industry. Our actions today represent a united call for integrity, fairness, and renewal in the petroleum sector,” Abiola concluded.
