Group Cautions Tanker Drivers Over Planned Strike on Dangote Refinery Dispute

The citizens-led group, Mass Action Against Economic Saboteurs (MAAES), has cautioned the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) against embarking on a nationwide strike over issues relating to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s plan to deploy 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks for fuel distribution. In a statement issued on Saturday, George Priye […]

The citizens-led group, Mass Action Against Economic Saboteurs (MAAES), has cautioned the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) against embarking on a nationwide strike over issues relating to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s plan to deploy 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks for fuel distribution.

In a statement issued on Saturday, George Priye West, president of the coalition, said union membership remains a matter of personal choice, citing the Supreme Court’s position that no worker can be compelled to join a union against their will.

NUPENG had earlier threatened to direct its Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch to halt fuel loading nationwide from September 8, alleging anti-labour practices at the refinery regarding recruitment and union membership.

The group noted that the Dangote Refinery represents a significant private-sector investment aimed at reducing Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports, creating jobs, and strengthening local capacity. It urged stakeholders to approach disputes constructively and avoid actions that could disrupt petroleum supply at a time of economic pressure.

MAAES called on the federal government and security agencies to engage all parties involved and ensure uninterrupted supply of petroleum products across the country.

The coalition also appealed to the public to remain calm, stressing that dialogue and respect for workers’ rights should guide the resolution of the dispute.

West emphasised that the group is not opposed to unionism but underscored the importance of balancing the right to join a union with the right not to, noting that both are constitutionally protected.

The statement added that the refinery project should be seen as an opportunity to support Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency goals and encouraged all parties to work together in the national interest.