Reported by: Ijeoma .G | Edited by Henry Owen
Lagos – The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has urged its members to disregard reports of a court order allegedly restraining the union from cutting gas supply to the Dangote Refinery. In a statement released late Monday, the union emphasized that no such order has been formally served, insisting that its ongoing industrial action remains fully valid.
The statement, signed by PENGASSAN General Secretary Lumumba Okugbawa, reiterated that members should continue the strike until further instructions are issued by national union leaders. The union also highlighted its commitment to defending the interests and welfare of its members amid ongoing tensions with the refinery.
Efforts to resolve the dispute hit a deadlock during a meeting convened by the Nigerian Minister of Labour and Employment. Sources familiar with the proceedings indicated that executives from Dangote Refinery remained resolute in their stance to terminate the 800 workers accused of sabotage, escalating concerns over job security and industrial relations in the nation’s energy sector.
Analysts note that the standoff could have significant implications for Nigeria’s gas supply chain and energy production. The Dangote Refinery, being one of the largest industrial facilities in the country, relies heavily on uninterrupted gas supply, and prolonged disruption may affect both domestic fuel distribution and broader economic activity.
Public reaction has been mixed, with many Nigerians expressing frustration at the potential impact of the industrial action on fuel prices and availability, while labor advocates have lauded PENGASSAN for standing firm against what they perceive as unfair treatment of its members. Observers argue that the situation underscores the delicate balance between industrial rights and national economic priorities, highlighting the importance of dialogue and compromise to avert prolonged disruption.
The standoff between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges in Nigeria’s energy sector, where labor disputes, operational demands, and regulatory oversight often intersect. As both parties await further developments, stakeholders across the oil and gas industry remain on high alert, aware that the outcome of this dispute may set a precedent for future industrial relations in the sector.
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