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Dangote Refinery says labour leaders driven by greed, not justice
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Demands FG resist ‘blackmail and sabotage’ of national asset
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PENGASSAN President accused of admitting dues priority on live TV
The management of Dangote Refinery has accused the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of pursuing personal financial interests under the guise of protecting workers’ welfare.
‘Unions after dues, not dignity’
In a statement on Sunday, the refinery condemned the unions’ threat of a nationwide strike, describing it as a desperate attempt to secure check-off dues and personal gain rather than addressing genuine labour grievances.
The statement read: “PENGASSAN and TUC are two peas in a pod twins from the same womb. Their interests do not extend beyond themselves and the oligarchs that run their affairs.”
“The monthly check-off dues and other subscriptions and scams that feed their lifestyles are the primary concerns of these oligarchs. At least one of them, Festus Osifo, admitted that much on national television.”
The refinery accused the unions of failing to account for the billions collected from members over the years, alleging the funds were being channelled into lavish lifestyles instead of improving workers’ welfare.
‘National interest under attack’
Dangote Refinery urged the Federal Government to intervene, warning that allowing the unions’ agitation to fester could cripple energy security and reverse Nigeria’s industrial progress.
“The refinery is a national asset that requires collective protection and prayers. TUC and its cohorts must not be allowed to trample on the dignity and rights of 230 million Nigerians,” it declared.
The company stressed that it remains committed to fair labour practices and open dialogue but will not tolerate blackmail or disruption of its operations.
FG, Labour Ministry on alert
Sources hinted that the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment is already monitoring the situation and may summon both parties for mediation in the coming days to avert a nationwide energy crisis.
