Dangote Refineries: Activists caution against planned nationwide strike
The Economic Rights Activists (ERA) have expressed concern over the planned nationwide strike announced by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), and other affiliated unions. During a press conference in Abuja, ERA’s Executive Director, Dr. Josiah […]
The Economic Rights Activists (ERA) have expressed concern over the planned nationwide strike announced by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), and other affiliated unions.
During a press conference in Abuja, ERA’s Executive Director, Dr. Josiah Inuwa, said the strike could disrupt fuel distribution and cause severe hardship for ordinary Nigerians, including small business owners, transport operators, and households.
“The okada rider in Enugu, the pepper seller in Osun, the teacher in Kaduna, and the mechanic in Port Harcourt will bear the brunt,” he stated. “Transport fares will rise, food prices will increase, hospitals may face power challenges, and small businesses could struggle to survive.”
The unions have raised concerns over alleged anti-union practices at the Dangote Refinery and issues relating to competition in the downstream petroleum sector.
ERA highlighted the impact of previous oil sector strikes, including the 2012 fuel subsidy protests and the 2020 industrial actions, which, according to the group, resulted in heavy economic losses.
Dr. Inuwa noted that the timing of the strike coincides with ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening energy self-sufficiency through the Dangote Refinery, describing the project as a significant step toward reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel.
He called on labour unions to prioritize dialogue and arbitration in resolving disputes rather than resorting to strike action, which he said could put additional strain on the economy.
The ERA urged the NLC, NUPENG, PETROAN, and others to return to the negotiation table, while also calling on the Federal Government, the Ministry of Labour, and relevant agencies to engage with all parties to reach a constructive resolution.
The group further appealed to the Dangote Refinery to address worker-related concerns transparently, ensuring fair labour practices while maintaining its role as a critical national asset.
ERA also suggested that the National Assembly, the National Industrial Court, and relevant security agencies should put mechanisms in place to prevent disruptions in critical sectors such as oil and gas.
Dr. Inuwa encouraged Nigerians to remain vigilant and supportive of efforts aimed at economic recovery, stressing the importance of avoiding actions that could derail the progress being made.