NLC urges Pres.Tinubu to intervene in Dangote-NUPENG dispute, threatens nationwide strike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in a mounting dispute between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Group to prevent a nationwide strike.

In a statement released on Saturday, NLC President Joe Ajaero called on the President to ensure the Dangote Group adheres to both national and international labour laws regarding workers' rights. 

The call comes after NUPENG announced a nationwide strike set to begin on Monday citing the company's anti-union practices and monopolistic agenda.

Ajaero specifically implored President Tinubu to immediately call Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Sayyu Dantata to order, accusing the Dangote Group of exploiting Nigerian workers and violating their right to unionize and bargain collectively. 

He warned that the government should not "look the other way while a few individuals privatise the nation’s energy future and enslave its workforce.

The NLC president condemned the "anti-union, anti-worker, and monopolistic practices" of the Dangote Group, demanding the immediate unionization of the Dangote Refinery and its subsidiaries. 

He warned that the broader labor movement is preparing for a united resistance which could escalate to industrial action if the situation is not resolved. 

Ajaero stated, "If Dangote continues on this reckless anti-union path, we will move beyond words to action. Our solidarity is not negotiable."