PENGASSAN Orders Nationwide Strike, Targets Dangote Refinery Operations

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has declared a nationwide strike set to commence on Monday, 29 September 2025, following the sack of workers allegedly linked to union activities at the Dangote Refinery.

Strike to Cripple Operations Across the Oil and Gas Sector

Akahi News gathered that in a resolution reached at its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Saturday, PENGASSAN directed all its members in offices, institutions, and field locations to withdraw their services. The union also ordered the immediate shutdown of control room operations, panel duties, and crude oil supplies to the Dangote Refinery, instructing International Oil Companies (IOCs) to halt production feeding the facility.

The union further announced a 24-hour prayer vigil beginning Sunday morning, urging members to seek divine intervention for “leaders to compel Dangote and his associates to obey the laws of the country,” stressing, “No man is bigger than our country. An injury to one is an injury to all.”

Widespread Reactions Across the Country

The planned strike has triggered mixed reactions nationwide. Some commentators on public forums accused the unions of economic sabotage, alleging that their actions are often timed to destabilise the economy when fuel prices are relatively stable.

Critics argued that shutting down national oil operations over a private employer’s labour dispute could harm ordinary citizens and discourage foreign investment in the sector. Others, however, maintained that the right to unionise is protected under Nigeria’s Constitution and international labour laws, insisting that no employer should be allowed to suppress workers’ rights.

Historical Tensions Between Labour Unions and Private Operators

Observers recalled that PENGASSAN and its sister union, NUPENG, had previously resisted oil sector privatisation efforts, including the controversial sale of the Port Harcourt Refinery in 2007 to a consortium involving Dangote. That deal was later reversed under pressure from the unions and other stakeholders.

Analysts believe the current standoff reflects long-standing friction between powerful oil unions and private investors seeking to reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape.

Awaiting Government Response

As at the time of filing this report, the Federal Government has yet to make an official statement on the impending strike, which could severely disrupt fuel supplies across the country if implemented as planned.

Akahi News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as events unfold.

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