-
NUPENG, Truck Drivers have been forbidden from compelling strikes or blocking roads
-
Dangote Refinery operations must continue uninterrupted
-
Court enforces rule of law over coercive union tactics
The National Industrial Court in Abuja has issued an injunction preventing the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association from undertaking industrial action that could disrupt operations at Dangote Refinery, MRS Oil Nigeria Limited, and MRS Oil and Gas Company Limited.
Delivering the ruling on Wednesday, Justice E.D. Subilim granted an ex parte motion filed by the refinery’s counsel, George Ibrahim SAN, after establishing that ongoing or threatened action posed a risk of irreparable damage to the facility.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
The injunction also restrains the unions from coercing other drivers to join strikes or from blocking public roads in a manner that could impede refinery operations.
“This court is satisfied that irreparable damage may be caused to Dangote Refinery if the necessary orders are not granted,” Justice Subilim stated.
The ruling emphasises the judiciary’s role in safeguarding critical national infrastructure while balancing the legitimate rights of labour organisations. Legal analysts say the decision sets a clear precedent on limiting coercive industrial action in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, especially where national economic stability is at stake.
READ ALSO: Dangote Refinery Deploys 4,000 CNG Trucks for Nationwide Petrol Supply
The injunction comes as tensions simmer between refinery operators and unionised workers, with both sides engaged in negotiations over wages, working conditions, and operational protocols.
Observers note that Dangote Refinery, being one of the country’s largest private industrial facilities, is vital for domestic fuel supply and export commitments.
NUPENG and associated bodies have been ordered to comply immediately with the court’s directive, failing which sanctions could follow.
The refinery’s management welcomed the ruling, emphasising that uninterrupted operations are crucial for sustaining economic activity and energy security in Nigeria.
