The federal government called a reconciliation meeting between PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery to prevent a nationwide strike over 800 dismissals.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) supported the strike, demanding reinstatement, an apology, and an independent probe into Dangote’s labour practices. It described the sackings as unlawful and warned of wider industrial action if its demands are ignored.
Gas suppliers ordered thermal power plants, supplying over 70% of Nigeria’s electricity, to shut down following PENGASSAN’s orders. Experts warn hydro dams cannot sustain the grid, raising fears of nationwide blackouts.
Labour Minister Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi urged the union to suspend the strike. “The Ministry of Labour and Employment, has extended invitations to PENGASSAN and the management of Dangote Refinery to attend a conciliation meeting in my office on Monday,” he said. He warned that a strike would cause huge revenue losses, deepen hardship, and threaten national security.
NACCIMA and CPPE condemned the union’s excessive action and urged legal redress rather than cutting energy supplies. They warned the standoff could scare investors and damage the economy.
Dangote Refinery described PENGASSAN’s directives as “criminal and reckless,” warning they could halt the production of petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene, and cooking gas.
“In what circumstance would it be justified for PENGASSAN to so disrupt and introduce insufferable hardship into the living conditions of Nigerians? None that we can see,” the company said.
The refinery urged the government to intervene, highlighting its role as a vital national asset and major revenue contributor.
