The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has accused the Dangote Petroleum Refinery of sponsoring division within its Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch. In a statement signed by its President, Williams Akporeha, and Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, the union alleged that Dangote was resisting workers’ rights to unionisation and using “falsehoods” to undermine organised labour.
Dispute Over Drivers’ Unionisation
NUPENG said the refinery barred drivers of its 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks from joining the union, sparking a two-day depot shutdown earlier in the week. Though an agreement was reached with the Ministry of Labour, the union claimed Dangote later instructed drivers to replace NUPENG stickers with those of a newly formed company-backed association.
Dangote Denies Allegations
In response, Dangote Group’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, dismissed the accusations, insisting the refinery supports constitutionally protected labour rights and that workers are free to affiliate with any union.
Warning Against “Greek Gift” Deliveries
NUPENG further described Dangote’s free nationwide petroleum delivery as a “Greek gift” aimed at stifling competition. The union urged Nigerians and the international community to resist anti-union practices and protect workers’ rights.
