Showdown Begins: NLC Joins PENGASSAN In Nationwide Strike Against Dangote Refinery

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has ordered its members nationwide to mobilise in solidarity with the strike declared by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) against Dangote Refinery.

The directive, issued in a circular signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, on Monday in Abuja, called for what it described as a “full-scale, decisive engagement” with the conglomerate over alleged anti-labour practices.

“You are hereby directed to immediately commence preparations for vigorous and comprehensive unionisation of all workers across Dangote Group facilities under your jurisdiction,” the memo stated.

The NLC accused the refinery of fostering a culture of union-busting, exploitation, and impunity, describing it as less of a workplace and more of a “plantation of exploitation where workers’ dignity is trampled.”

According to the congress, Dangote Refinery operates as “a state within a state,” repeatedly violating Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, disregarding International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions 87 and 98, and flouting national labour laws “with reckless impunity.”

The move comes amid tense negotiations between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery following the union’s decision over the weekend to cut gas and crude oil supplies to the facility.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Labour and Employment stressed on Monday that an amicable resolution must be reached in the interest of workers, Nigerians, and the refinery itself.