The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has inaugurated a 16-member caretaker committee to oversee its Eastern Zone for 90 days.

The inauguration took place on Friday in Calabar.

IPMAN also inaugurated the Calabar Depot Task Force to handle surveillance and intelligence operations across Cross River and Akwa Ibom states.

Speaking during the ceremony, IPMAN National President, Abubakar Shettima, said the committee became necessary following the death of Eastern Zonal Chairman, Larry Nworuh.

Represented by National Secretary, James Tor, Shettima said the national executive council acted after extensive consultations with key stakeholders.

He stated that the decision was aimed at ensuring continuity, stability and effective administration within the eastern zone pending fresh elections.

“The caretaker committee, led by Mr Nsikak Sunday, would manage the zone’s affairs while creating a peaceful atmosphere for a credible zonal election,” he said.

Mr Shettima urged members to embrace humility, teamwork and inclusiveness to strengthen unity and advance the interests of marketers across the zone.

“I urge members to demonstrate humility, teamwork and inclusiveness, as these are the traits needed from all stakeholders across the Eastern Zone,” he said.

The IPMAN president also commended the Cross River State government for promoting a favourable business environment through infrastructure development and improved security.

Responding, Mr Sunday described his inauguration as a product of perseverance despite challenges encountered before the committee’s emergence.

He pledged to carry stakeholders along and promote peace, unity and cooperation throughout the committee’s three-month assignment.

Mr Sunday assured members that the committee would work diligently to restore confidence and strengthen harmony within the association.

Also speaking, IPMAN National Coordinator of Monitoring, Surveillance and Intelligence, Nickson Ahanonu, warned task force members against compromising their responsibilities.

MrAhanonu cautioned operatives against aiding illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism and petroleum product adulteration within the region.

He warned members against accepting bribes from criminal syndicates, stressing that offenders would face disciplinary actions and legal consequences.

 “Any member compromising this assignment will face disciplinary measures and legal sanctions,” Mr Ahanonu said.

He directed the Eastern Zonal Task Force Coordinator, Emmanuel Ogbonna, to ensure professionalism, accountability and strict compliance with IPMAN’s mandate.

Mr Ahanonu further pledged to investigate reports of suspected petroleum product smuggling around Calabar and collaborate with security agencies to apprehend culprits.

The inauguration comes as IPMAN seeks to strengthen unity and stability following years of leadership disputes that split the association into factions. 

(NAN)