Oshiomhole Criticizes PENGASSAN’s Handling of Dangote Refinery Dispute as Ill-Considered

Former Nigerian Labour leader and lawmaker Adams Oshiomhole has sharply criticized the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over its ongoing dispute with the Dangote Refinery. Oshiomhole described the union’s actions as “ill-considered,” blaming its leadership for escalating tensions that threaten the operations of Africa’s largest oil refinery.

The conflict began after Dangote Refinery dismissed over 800 workers suspected of sabotage, leading PENGASSAN to call for a nationwide strike and withdrawal of crude and gas supplies. Oshiomhole argued that the union’s rigid stance has not only disrupted the refinery’s activities but also jeopardized Nigeria’s economic stability, given the refinery’s critical role in the nation’s energy security.

In his remarks, Oshiomhole emphasized that the union should prioritize dialogue and constructive negotiations rather than industrial actions that inflict widespread damage. He pointed out that the refinery had offered to pay the salaries of the dismissed workers for five years without requiring them to resume work at the facility, a move aimed at maintaining peace and operational continuity—a proposal PENGASSAN reportedly rejected.

The former labour leader also called on PENGASSAN to consider the larger national interest and avoid actions that may create substantial hardship for ordinary Nigerians, including potential fuel shortages and economic disruptions.

The dispute has drawn government intervention with the Ministry of Labour facilitating talks leading to a temporary truce and the promise that affected workers will be reassigned within the Dangote Group without loss of pay.

Oshiomhole’s outspoken criticism underscores the need for labor unions to balance advocacy for workers’ rights with the broader economic implications of their actions, particularly in critical sectors like oil and gas.

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