The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has expressed full solidarity with its affiliate, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), on the ongoing dispute with the Dangote Refinery over the disengagement of some Nigerian workers. Pinnacle Daily had reported that PENGASSAN directed its members to embark on a nationwide strike, …
Dangote: TUC Backs PENGASSAN, Threatens Solidarity Strike
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has expressed full solidarity with its affiliate, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), on the ongoing dispute with the Dangote Refinery over the disengagement of some Nigerian workers.
Pinnacle Daily had reported that PENGASSAN directed its members to embark on a nationwide strike, starting from Monday, September 29, 2025, over the alleged sacking of over 800 Nigerian workers by the Dangote Refinery for joining the union.
In a statement signed by its Secretary General Comrade NA Toro, TUC condemned what it described as “anti-worker actions” by the management of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
It said the termination of the workers’ employment was “unjust”, adding that they only exercised their constitutional right to freedom of association and unionisation.
TUC argued that Dangote Refinery’s action is against Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution and International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, which Nigeria is a signatory to.
“We stand in full solidarity with the affected workers and with their union, our affiliate PENGASSAN, whose members have been victimised merely for declaring membership. Such actions amount to a direct assault on Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution and on Nigeria’s obligations under International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions.”
TUC demanded an immediate and unconditional reinstatement of all affected workers by the Dangote Refinery management.
It also demanded that the company should issue a public apology with firm assurances against future victimisation.
The union also called for an independent investigation involving the Ministry of Labour, ILO and stakeholders into the refinery’s labour practices.
TUC threatened to embark on a nationwide strike in solidarity with PENGASSAN members if the Dangote Refinery fails to meet its demands within a reasonable time.
“Congress hereby places all affiliates on standby for a national industrial action if Dangote management fails to comply with these demands within a reasonable time.
READ ALSO: Dangote Refinery: PENGASSAN, NUPENG Actions Threaten National Security – Expert
“No corporation, regardless of size or wealth, will be allowed to trample on the dignity and rights of Nigerian workers.
“The TUC stands united and ready to act decisively in defence of our members and the Nigerian workforce,” the statement further read.
The controversy between the Dangote Group and labour unions has continued to generate reactions. While some condemned the action of the PENGASSAN regarding its potential impact on the economy, others criticised the Dangote Refinery’s actions against staff for exercising their constitutional rights of freedom of association.
Meanwhile, the federal government, through the Ministry of Labour, has urged PENGASSAN to suspend its action and invited both parties to a conciliatory meeting with the minister on Monday.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in mass communication.
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