The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has threatened to picket the Dangote Petroleum Refinery following the alleged mass sacking of over 800 Nigerian workers.
PENGASSAN’s Allegations
According to statements from PENGASSAN, the sacked workers were dismissed shortly after joining the union, a move the association describes as a clear act of intimidation and an anti-labour practice. PENGASSAN further alleges that the refinery is replacing the laid-off Nigerian workers with more than 2,000 Indian nationals, many of whom lack valid immigration documentation. The union insists this violates Nigerian labor laws, specifically citing Section 7 of the Labour Act which prohibits discrimination and protects workers’ rights to fair treatment and freedom of association.
PENGASSAN’s General Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa, stated that the union is preparing to use all constitutional powers available to compel the refinery to reinstate the affected workers. The union has scheduled an emergency meeting to decide on its next course of action, which could include picketing the refinery.
Dangote Refinery’s Response
In response to the allegations, the management of Dangote Refinery has denied a mass sack of workers. The company confirmed that a “reorganization” is underway but stated that it is a necessary measure to “safeguard the refinery from repeated acts of sabotage” that have raised safety concerns and affected operational efficiency.
A company statement clarified that the decision was not arbitrary and was taken in the best interest of the refinery, which is a strategic national asset. The management also said it remains committed to upholding internationally accepted labor principles, including workers’ freedom to join a union.
Broader Context
This dispute is part of an ongoing tension between the Dangote Refinery and Nigerian labor unions. The unions have previously accused the company of resisting unionization and engaging in poor labor practices. The current standoff could have significant implications for Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, potentially leading to disruptions in fuel supply if PENGASSAN follows through on its threat to picket the facility.
