Dangote Refinery Urges Nigerians to Resist TUC, PENGASSAN Amid Labour Dispute
Amid growing tensions with organized labour, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has called on Nigerians to resist the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over what it describes as a self-serving industrial action.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, the refinery criticized the unions for launching a campaign without verifying the facts of the matter. It described TUC’s declaration of support for PENGASSAN as “zombie-like” and accused the labour group of failing to seek clarification before threatening a nationwide strike.
“He who hears only one side and delivers judgment is a fool,” the company stated. “Unfortunately, the Trade Union Congress has placed itself in that position.”
Allegations of Financial Self-Interest
Dangote Refinery alleged that the true motivation behind the unions’ actions is not worker welfare but the pursuit of monthly check-off dues. The company referenced a recent statement by Festus Osifo, President of PENGASSAN, who reportedly admitted that the union wrote to the refinery seeking dues a day after workers allegedly unionised.
The company went further to describe PENGASSAN and TUC as “twins from the same womb,” accusing them of prioritizing personal gain over national interest.
“The monthly check-off dues and other subscriptions that fund their lifestyles are their primary interest,” the statement claimed. “PENGASSAN and its collaborators are willing to throw the country into crisis for their own benefit.”
The refinery also accused the unions, including NUPENG, of failing to account for workers’ contributions while allegedly enjoying lavish lifestyles funded by union subscriptions.
Appeal to Government and Public
Dangote Refinery appealed to the federal government and the Nigerian public to resist what it described as an attempt by labour leaders to drag the nation back to an era of energy insecurity and sabotage.
“This refinery is a national asset that deserves protection and support. Nigerians must reject the actions of these so-called labour leaders who threaten national progress,” the statement said.
The company also challenged the unions to publish their financial records in the spirit of transparency, asserting that the workers have a right to know how their contributions are being managed.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict stems from the dismissal of over 800 workers at the refinery—a move that drew the ire of PENGASSAN. On September 26, the union ordered a nationwide strike, prompting widespread disruptions across the petroleum sector.
Three days later, the TUC issued a statement demanding the immediate reinstatement of the sacked workers, warning of broader labour action if the issue remains unresolved.
As tensions escalate, there are growing concerns over fuel supply stability and broader economic implications if the standoff is not quickly addressed.
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