The National leadership of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of NUPENG has strongly denounced the torture and degrading treatment inflicted upon two of its members in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, on Sunday, February 25, 2024, by personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
In an official statement, Comrade Lucky Osesua, the National Chairman of PTD, along with his deputy Comrade Dayyabu Garga and the National Secretary, Comrade Humble Obinna Power, urged urgent intervention from the Federal Government, National Assembly, and relevant security authorities, including the Commandant of the NSCDC in Imo State, the Police, Department of State Security (DSS), and the state government. They called for immediate action to ensure the safety and protection of their members while seeking justice.
The incident involved a truck bearing the registration number AXB 605ZH.
While expressing support for measures against criminal elements involved in illegal oil bunkering and other unlawful activities that undermine the country’s economy, PTD emphasized that the continuous harassment and mistreatment of its members would no longer be tolerated. They highlighted the numerous instances where their members had been subjected to harassment by various state and non-state actors and demanded that such actions cease in the interest of industrial peace and harmony.
In their statement, PTD extended heartfelt sympathy to the affected victims and assured them of upholding their fundamental rights as provided by Nigerian laws. They reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing justice for the unfortunate incident.
The statement conveyed deep shock at the brutality suffered by their members at the hands of NSCDC personnel during the execution of their lawful duties. It revealed that the drivers were rendered unconscious for several hours, prompting concerns that they might have succumbed to the ordeal. The refusal of the drivers to yield to extortion demands allegedly led to the assault.
Despite the harrowing experience, the drivers managed to regain consciousness and fulfill their responsibilities by transporting the loaded truck to its destination later that evening. PTD noted the gesture of some NSCDC personnel who visited the victims in the hospital and covered their medical expenses.
However, PTD expressed disappointment in the inefficacy of the health insurance scheme provided by their parent union, NUPENG, in such critical situations. They criticized what they perceived as inadequate support for members facing life-threatening situations while on duty.
The statement also criticized NUPENG for purportedly misrepresenting the leadership of PTD and urged stakeholders in the petroleum sector to disregard such actions. It emphasized the need for justice and appropriate compensation for the affected members.
PTD reiterated its stance against criminal activities and affirmed its commitment to upholding the rights of its diligent and law-abiding members who contribute to the distribution of petroleum products across Nigeria.
In conclusion, PTD called for calm among its members in the affected zone while urging the government and relevant authorities to demonstrate compassion and support for their cause. They emphasized the importance of collaboration to ensure the socio-economic advancement of Nigeria and reiterated their determination to seek justice for the victims of the tragic incident.
