The Petroleum Tanker Drivers arm of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers has advised its members to avoid night journeys, pointing to growing security concerns and increasing road hazards.

The directive was issued as the union confirmed Mathias Ote as its substantive national chairman at its National Executive Council meeting held in Warri over the weekend.

Ote takes over from Augustine Egbon, the union’s immediate past chairman, who passed away last year.

Addressing members, Ote warned tanker drivers to steer clear of night travel, pointing to worsening security threats and deteriorating road conditions nationwide

“The risks associated with night driving are increasing. Many criminal activities, such as hijacking, kidnapping, and fatal accidents, occur at night, worsened by the deteriorating condition of some roads,” he said.

“I urge all our members to desist from night driving because if anything happens, you will bear the consequences.”

In his inaugural address, the new chairman honoured his predecessor, portraying him as an outstanding leader dedicated to the welfare and advancement of union members

“It is indeed very painful to lose such a great and exemplary leader who impacted positively on the lives of his people and left an indelible mark on the union,” Ote said.

He expressed gratitude to NUPENG’s leadership and members of the NEC for the confidence reposed in him, promising to deliver focused and effective leadership.

“There are many capable hands that could lead this great branch, but in your collective decision, I was elected as chairman. What I have to offer in appreciation is good leadership, and I will spare nothing in providing it,” he said.

A national trustee of NUPENG, Salimon Oladiti, reinforced the warning, calling on drivers to make safety their top priority.