The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on its members nationwide to rally behind the strike initiated by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) targeting Dangote Refinery.
In a circular signed by Comrade Joe Ajaero on Monday in Abuja, the NLC urged all affiliated unions and workers across the country to promptly organize a robust and comprehensive campaign against what it described as the conglomerate’s oppressive labor practices.
The directive emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, “Begin without delay the thorough unionization of all employees within every Dangote Group establishment under your oversight.”
The NLC characterized the disputes involving PENGASSAN and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers’ Union (NUPENG) as manifestations of a broader systemic issue-an entrenched capitalist approach marked by union suppression, worker exploitation, and blatant disregard for labor rights that underpins the company’s industrial relations.
According to the union, Dangote Refinery operates less like a conventional workplace and more like a domain of exploitation where employee rights and dignity are routinely trampled.
Further accusations describe the refinery as “a sovereign entity within the nation,” highlighting repeated breaches of Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, violations of International Labour Organization (ILO) Conventions 87 and 98, and a flagrant disrespect for national labor regulations.
“These sites function as exploitative environments where workers’ respect and welfare are sacrificed to boost profits for a select few,” the statement added.
This escalation unfolds amid ongoing negotiations between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery aimed at resolving the labor dispute.
Over the weekend, PENGASSAN announced industrial action, instructing its members to halt the supply of gas and crude oil to the refinery as part of their protest.
In response, the Minister of Labour and Employment emphasized on Monday the importance of reaching an amicable settlement for the benefit of Nigerians, the workforce, and the refinery’s operations.