Awka – The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has identified poor vehicle maintenance and human error as major factors behind the frequent accidents and explosions involving petroleum tankers across the country. This revelation emerged during a meeting convened by Anambra State’s Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Barrister Anthony Ifeanya, to address the recurring incidents and explore preventive measures.
The meeting, held at the Jerome Udoji State Secretariat in Awka, brought together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing safety and reducing the risks associated with petroleum transportation. Barrister Ifeanya emphasized the importance of safeguarding lives and property, urging the PTD to provide detailed data on tanker drivers operating within and transiting through Anambra State, as well as their affiliated distribution companies.
The Commissioner also highlighted the need for the establishment of Tanker Vehicle Parks under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. Such facilities, he noted, would not only improve safety and regulatory compliance but also alleviate road congestion caused by heavy vehicles. Additionally, Ifeanya advised tanker drivers to exercise caution on the roads and avoid using hard drugs to combat fatigue, which often leads to accidents.
Comrade Izuchukwu Onwuka, State Chairman of the PTD branch of NUPENG and the NUPENG Coordinating Council, revealed that a national directive mandates tanker drivers to cease operations by 6:00 PM daily. He appealed for the urgent creation of designated parks where drivers can rest, refresh, and resume their journeys during daylight hours. According to Onwuka, such parks would not only enhance safety but also generate revenue for the state.
Onwuka further cautioned drivers against operating poorly maintained vehicles, stressing the importance of prioritizing safety to ensure their well-being and longevity in the profession.
The meeting was attended by Engineer Ikechukwu Okafor, Special Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Petroleum and Mineral Resources, and Mrs. Nkiru Nwankwor, Permanent Secretary of the ministry. The discussions underscored the collective commitment to addressing the challenges in the petroleum transportation sector and ensuring safer roads for all.
