National Assembly Wades In: Reps Warn PENGASSAN Against Sabotaging Dangote Refinery

The House of Representatives Committee on Downstream Petroleum Resources has strongly criticised the directive issued by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) instructing some of its branches to halt gas and crude oil supplies to the Dangote Refinery.

The lawmakers cautioned that such an action could inflict serious economic harm and discourage foreign investors from putting money into Nigeria’s energy sector.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Committee Chairman, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, said PENGASSAN’s move was taken abruptly, without adequate notice, and in violation of procedures outlined in relevant trade union laws.

“This decision risks driving away foreign investors who may fear that due process is ignored when resolving disputes in the sector. The union should instead return to the negotiating table for direct talks, to be chaired by the downstream committee with regulators, the labour ministry, and Dangote Refinery in attendance, so a sustainable solution can be reached,” Ugochinyere said.

He urged PENGASSAN to immediately call off the shutdown and restore supplies to the refinery, assuring that lawmakers are ready to intervene in the national interest.

“While we recognise the concerns raised by PENGASSAN, we cannot endorse their directive to halt gas supply to Dangote Refinery without prior notice. The action is hasty, with wide-ranging consequences for Nigeria’s energy needs, private sector investment, and the ongoing peace efforts being championed by this committee. This is why we are calling for an immediate reversal of the shutdown directive,” he added.