Tragedy hits oil workers as PTD National chairman, Augustine Egbon, dies

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has been thrown into mourning following the death of Augustine Egbon, the National Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch.

Egbon died on Sunday, November 16, 2025, sending shockwaves through the oil and gas labour community nationwide.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the petroleum haulage sector, Egbon was known for his firm stance on workers’ welfare and his role in stabilising industrial relations between tanker drivers and national authorities. His passing marks a major loss for one of the most critical segments of Nigeria’s oil distribution chain.

Union members, industry stakeholders and labour leaders have continued to express shock, describing his death as both “sudden” and “devastating.” Many noted that Egbon’s leadership not only shaped the PTD Branch but also strengthened NUPENG’s national relevance and advocacy.

In a statement announcing his death, NUPENG General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, said:

“With a profound sense of loss and deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of our esteemed Comrade and National Chairman of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch, Comrade Augustine Egbon (JP). Comrade Egbon was a dedicated leader, a steadfast Comrade, and a formidable pillar within NUPENG. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of our members and his visionary leadership of the PTD Branch has left an indelible mark on our Union’s history.

“During this period of immense grief, we pray that the Almighty God grants his immediate family, the entire PTD Branch, and NUPENG at large the divine strength and fortitude to bear this great loss.”

NUPENG said funeral arrangements will be announced after consultations with Egbon’s family.

Augustine Egbon is remembered as a calm but firm negotiator, a unifier, and a passionate defender of workers’ rights. Colleagues say his legacy will continue to shape labour activism within Nigeria’s petroleum industry.

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