The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has issued a condemnation of what it describes as “anti-labour practices” at the Dangote Refinery, alleging the termination of over 800 Nigerian workers in favour of over 2,000 Indian workers.
In a press release signed by its General Secretary, Comrade Lumumba Ighotemu Okugbawa, the union on Friday accused the refinery of unjustly dismissing hundreds of local workers without due process, while retaining and prioritizing foreign nationals over qualified Nigerians.
Earlier, the refinery had terminated the employment of some of its local staff, effective September 25, following reports that most of them joined the PENGASSAN.
The management of the firm said the decision was part of a “total reorganisation” after repeated sabotage incidents across different units of the facility. It said the action was necessary to “safeguard operations at the facility and ensure operational continuity”.
All affected staff were required to “surrender all company property in their possession to their line managers and obtain exit clearance”.
However, PENGASSAN had described the move as a “violation of workers’ rights and a betrayal of national interest.”
“We demand the immediate reinstatement of all affected Nigerian workers,” the statement read. “Failure to comply within seven (7) days will result in industrial action across all our branches and affiliates.”
Dangote Refinery responds
In a separate announcement dated the same day, the management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery denied the allegations, stating that not all Nigerian workers had been terminated or laid off.
The company clarified that its ongoing reorganisation is not arbitrary but aimed at enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and aligning with international labour standards.
“Over 3,000 Nigerians continue to work actively at the refinery,” the management stated.
“Only a small number of staff were affected, as we continue to recruit Nigerian talent through our various graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire recruitment process.”
“We recognise and uphold internationally accepted labour principles, including the rights of every worker to freely decide whether or not to join a union. Our commitment to workers’ rights is unwavering,” the company affirmed.
Labour tensions rise
Since announcing its free fuel distribution scheme, the Dangote refinery has been mired in a series of controversies.
The $470 million scheme has pitted the plant against several trade union groups across Nigeria’s energy sector, with stakeholders calling for transparency and dialogue.
Labour experts warn that if unresolved, the dispute could escalate into a broader confrontation between unions and private sector operators.
PENGASSAN has stressed its commitment to defending the rights and welfare of Nigerian oil and gas workers, warning that it would not hesitate to mobilize nationwide protests if its demands are ignored.
As the seven-day ultimatum ticks down, all eyes are on the Dangote Refinery and the federal government’s response to what could become a defining moment in Nigeria’s industrial relations landscape.
