PENGASSAN slams Dangote refinery over sack of over 800 Nigerians

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has condemned what it described as anti-labour practices by Dangote Refinery, following the dismissal of more than 800 Nigerian workers and their replacement with over 2,000 Indian nationals.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Association’s General Secretary, Comrade Lumumba Ighotemu Okugbawa, on Friday.

The statement reads partly: “We are deeply saddened to report the unjust termination of over 800 Nigerian workers, whose dedication and service have been integral to the operations of this plant. Instead of valuing and retaining this workforce, Management has chosen to replace these qualified Nigerians with over 2,000 Indian workers, many of whom lack valid immigration documentation.

“This move not only undermines the livelihoods of our citizens but also raises serious concerns about the integrity of labour practices and compliance with the Labour Act of Nigeria. Under Section 7 of the Labour Act, which prohibits discrimination and ensures the right to fair treatment in the workplace, the actions of Dangote Refinery are glaringly in violation of our labour laws.

“Furthermore, we will not tolerate this blatant disregard for the rights of Nigerian workers, particularly in light of the existing provisions under the Trade Union Act, which enshrines the right of workers to organise and join trade unions. The recent organisation of these workers as members of PENGASSAN underscores their collective power and right to protection under the law.

“We emphasise that such actions illustrate a troubling trend towards the marginalisation of Nigerian workers in favour of foreign labour, which we cannot, and will not, tolerate. The sacrifice and talents of our workforce deserve respect, and we demand accountability from employers who possess a social responsibility to the communities they operate in.”

PENGASSAN accused Dangote Group of pursuing “relentless profit at the expense of local talent, ethical employment practices, and community welfare.” The union described the dismissals as an attack on Nigerian dignity and a violation of international labour standards.

Okugbawa stated that PENGASSAN has issued an ultimatum to the refinery management to recall all the sacked workers. He warned that failure to comply would compel the union to invoke all provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and labour laws to secure justice for the affected employees.

He disclosed that an emergency meeting of the Association’s National Executive Council (NEC) has been scheduled to determine the next line of action.