Nigeria TV Info 

Federal Government Intervenes as Nationwide Strike Commences Amid Dangote Refinery Dispute

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has initiated a nationwide strike today, protesting the alleged dismissal of over 800 Nigerian workers at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The union accuses the refinery of replacing local employees with foreign nationals, primarily from India, under the guise of a reorganization aimed at improving safety and efficiency. In response, PENGASSAN has directed its members to halt all crude and gas supplies to the refinery, effectively shutting down operations .

The federal government has intervened in the dispute, with the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, appealing to PENGASSAN to suspend the strike. The Ministry has invited both PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery management to a conciliation meeting scheduled for today, urging both parties to engage in dialogue to prevent further economic disruption .

Dangote Refinery has condemned the strike, labeling it as unlawful and accusing PENGASSAN of economic sabotage. The refinery asserts that the union lacks the legal authority to disrupt its operations and has warned that such actions could lead to legal consequences .

The ongoing strike has raised concerns about potential fuel shortages and electricity blackouts, as the refinery plays a crucial role in Nigeria's energy supply. The federal government has assured the public that measures are being taken to address the situation and maintain stability in the petroleum sector .

As the situation develops, stakeholders are closely monitoring the outcomes of today's conciliation meeting, hoping for a resolution that balances labor rights with the nation's economic interests.