Saturday, 13 September 2025

NUPENG accuses Dangote of sponsoring division among tanker drivers

AgegePulse Magazine 


The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers has accused the Dangote Petroleum Refinery of sponsoring division within its Petroleum Tanker Drivers branch, resisting workers’ rights to unionisation, and deploying what it described as “falsehoods” to undermine the union.

 NUPENG accuses Dangote of sponsoring division among tanker drivers


NUPENG also accused the company of using a “Greek gift” of free nationwide petroleum delivery to undermine the union and stifle competition.



In a statement signed by its National Executive President, Williams Akporeha, and the General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, on Friday, the union dismissed a press release by the Dangote Group on Thursday as “an epitome of unconscionable capitalist falsehood aimed at hoodwinking Nigerians and crushing NUPENG.”


On Thursday, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery dismissed recent allegations made by the NUPENG that it banned tanker drivers from joining the union, insisting that claims of anti-labour practices, monopolistic behaviour, and planned fuel price hikes are “entirely unfounded”.




NUPENG, on Monday, shut down depots, protesting that the Dangote refinery did not allow the newly recruited drivers for its 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks to join the union.


The shutdown of depots lasted till Tuesday, when it was suspended following an agreement reached by both parties at a meeting organised by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.


However, on Thursday, NUPENG said Dangote was not ready to abide by the terms of the agreement.


But in a statement made available to our correspondent by the spokesman for the Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina, the company stated that the allegations that it was undermining union activities and threatening workers’ welfare through its new deployment of CNG-powered trucks were not true.


The Dangote refinery reiterated its full support for constitutionally protected labour rights, stating that employees are free to affiliate with any recognised trade union.


Reacting on Friday, NUPENG alleged that despite signing a Memorandum of Understanding on September 9, which it said acknowledged the company’s initial resistance to unionisation, the Dangote refinery on September 11, 2025, instructed drivers to remove NUPENG stickers from their trucks and replace them with those of the newly formed Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association, allegedly created by the management.


“Our members have stoutly resisted this development,” the statement said, adding that the refinery has been attempting to sponsor parallel structures within the PTD branch since 2023 by recruiting members who had lost union elections into the DTCDA.


NUPENG also linked some of the individuals supporting the company in the media to ongoing criminal cases.


The union further warned Nigerians against what it described as the “Greek gift” of free nationwide petroleum delivery by the Dangote refinery, alleging that the move was designed to stifle competition and force drivers into the company-controlled association.


“It is on record that Dangote Group does not allow unionisation in its cement and sugar plants across Nigeria”, NUPENG claimed, stressing that the same anti-union stance is now being extended to refinery workers.


The union called on Nigerians and the international community to resist any attempt to deny refinery workers and drivers their right to freedom of association and unionisation, warning that its leaders must not be harmed in the course of the struggle.


“Our solidarity remains constant, for the union makes us strong”, the statement concluded.


Punch

Wednesday, 10 September 2025

Sanwo-Olu Administration Flags Off 200-Metre Road Construction in Ifelodun LCDA

Yomi Durojaye 

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development with the official flag-off of the construction of a 200-metre stone-paved road on Sanni Street, Ifelodun Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

Sanwo-Olu Administration Flags Off 200-Metre Road Construction in Ifelodun LCDA


The Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, who performed the flag-off on behalf of the State Government, described the project as “more than a road construction – it is a new chapter in the story of development for the Ifelodun community.”

While giving his keynote address, Dr. Agbaje explained that Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has consistently prioritised inner roads that connect communities, reduce travel-time, and enhance the free flow of people and goods across Lagos. According to him, the project reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring even development across all 57 Local Government Areas and LCDAs in the State.



“This road may appear modest in length, but its impact will be enormous. For the people of Sanni Street, it will ease daily stress, improve accessibility, and enlarge economic opportunities. This is why Mr. Governor has made rural infrastructure a cardinal focus,” the Special Adviser said.

He further assured that the 200-metre road, which is expected to be completed within six months, would not only bring immediate relief to residents but also stimulate business activities and enhance the overall environmental outlook of the area. He called on community members to take ownership of the project, protect contractors during the construction process, and provide the cooperation needed for smooth delivery.




Also speaking at the event, the Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency 1, Honourable Lukman Olumo, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for cascading the dividends of democracy to the grassroots and thanked Dr. Agbaje for ensuring a prompt flag-off once approval was secured from the Governor.

Hon. Olumo gave strong assurances to his constituents, pledging that he would continue to push for projects that would aid the growth and development of Ajeromi-Ifelodun.

“Every genuine need of my constituency that advances our community will be taken to the State, and I will not rest until it is delivered,” he assured. 

In his technical presentation, representative of the construction company, JIBC Engineering Nigeria Limited, Engineer Seun Orekomaya, disclosed that the road project is designed as a stone-paved carriageway with covered drainage that doubles as pedestrian walkways, as well as solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety and security. He added that the company will deliberately partner with local artisans and skilled-workers in the area as a way of empowering residents economically during the construction period.




Beyond the flag-off, the event also featured an inspiring empowerment initiative. Cash grants were presented to youths in the community who had successfully completed a summer training programme facilitated by Hon. Lukman Olumo. The grants were personally handed over to the beneficiaries by Dr. Agbaje, who noted that youth empowerment remains an integral part of sustainable development.

He remarked that while infrastructure provides the physical framework for development, empowering young people provides the human capital required to sustain progress.

The event was well-attended by political leaders, community stakeholders, and residents who trooped out in large numbers to witness what many described as a long-awaited relief for Sanni Street.

Among the dignitaries present were the APC Chairman of Ifelodun LCDA, Honourable Babatunde Aderemi Olalekan; former Executive Secretary, Ifelodun LCDA, Honourable Adigun Wahab; and the CDC Chairman, Ifelodun LCDA, Alhaji Idowu Bolaji Jimoh, alongside many other notable leaders and stakeholders.

With the flag-off, the administration of Governor Sanwo-Olu has once again demonstrated its commitment to matching words with action, proving that development is not just a promise but a reality that residents can see, feel, and experience in their everyday lives.



Monday, 8 September 2025

Yoruba Actress, Jaiye Kuti Opens Up On Her Alleged Relationship And Marriage To Pasuma

 

Nollywood actress, Jaiye Kuti, has addressed the rumours of her romantic relationship with fuji singer, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma.


It was rumoured that the actress had divorced her husband to date Pasuma.

Yoruba Actress, Jaiye Kuti Opens Up On Her Alleged Relationship And Marriage To Pasuma




Speaking in an interview with BBC Yoruba, Jaiye Kuti explained that the reports of dating Pasuma started when she featured him in one of her movies titled ‘Jaiyeola Monje’ where the duo acted as a couple and gave birth to a child.


The actress stated that her wedding with the singer in the movie prompted many fans to watch the film to see what really went down.


“The viral pictures used in speculating the alleged affair were from the movie and they frequently pop up on Google when they search about me.

“Our relationship is mutual. There was never a romantic affair with Pasuma. I’m happily married with kids,” she said.

Tribute and Endorsement to Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly By Moshood Daramola (June 12) . Tribute and Endorsement to Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly By Moshood Daramola (Jun 12



It is with profound admiration that I pay tribute to Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, a leader whose resolve, compassion, loyalty, and grassroots dedication exemplify the soul of true public service.





Your unyielding doggedness has been on full display through every challenge and triumph—earning you acclaim across the Assembly. 


Members have lauded your “doggedness and tenacity in getting things done,” noting that under your leadership, the Lagos State House of Assembly has grown from a “good listener to a great listener and an actionable listener” .


Your unparalleled connection to the grassroots remains one of your most outstanding strengths including annual stakeholders’ meetings across all LGAs and LCDAs—you have consistently translated policy into people-centric action

 

Your loyalty to the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and institutional integrity is legendary. 


Your decade-long speakership, your steadfast support for party ideals, and your guidance through turbulent times have solidified you as both a pillar and a mentor.


Indeed, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, you are not merely a political leader. You are a mentor, a pillar of our community, a voice for the people, and an enduring symbol of commitment and service. 


We are proud to call you our leader, and we stand unwaveringly with you as you continue shaping a brighter future for us all.


 *Moshood Daramola(June 12)*                         .                                                                                 Assistant Youth Leader,Ward B, Agege Local Government



Wednesday, 3 September 2025

Residents Celebrate As Ward A Councilor Clears Sebiotimo Mess In Agege LG

By Yomi Durojaye 

The Councillor representing Ward "A", Agege Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Onile has cleared the mess at Sebiotimo Junction by Capitol road, Agege.

Residents Celebrate As Ward A Councilor Clears Sebiotimo Mess In Agege LG


Hotnews In Naija reported that the culvert was one of the abandoned projects of Egunjobi led administration.


Sebiotimo Street is an important road and a bypass from Capitol road linking to Old Abeokuta road and Mangoro Community through Sule Street to Lagos - Abeokuta Expressway.


The residents and motorists are very happy for the step taken by the Councillor as many residents have been suffering over the abandoned projects.


Meanwhile, the residents are calling on the Councillor to Marshal more projects to the area.


HotNews Naija

Tuesday, 2 September 2025

Actress Peju Ogunmola Bereaved as Only Son Dies

Yomi Durojaye 

Nollywood has been thrown into mourning as veteran Yoruba actress, Peju Ogunmola, loses her only son, Shina.



The tragic incident occurred on Monday while the 56-year-old star was on a movie set.


 She was devastated upon discovering at the hospital that it was her son who had p@ssed.


The loss comes only months after Shina successfully completed his NYSC program, a milestone that had filled his mother with pride.