Dangote Refinery has responded firmly to allegations that it planned a mass sack of workers. The company says it only reorganises roles in response to sabotage concerns and denies any intent to fire a large number of employees. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has raised labour practice concerns, especially related to union membership and working conditions.
What Dangote Says
The refinery stressed that claims about mass layoffs remain false. It insists it has not forced any worker out or ended contracts en masse. Instead, it explained that the changes aim to improve operations, especially with the deployment of over 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks a strategy tied to Nigeria’s energy transition. The company also claimed it adheres to labour laws and allows employees to affiliate with any recognised union.
What NUPENG Objects To
NUPENG says that some contracts for tanker drivers prevent union membership. The union also alleges that existing drivers must renounce their union affiliations to keep working. Those claims, according to NUPENG, violate workers’ constitutional rights. The union threatened industrial action, but it suspended strike plans after talks with regulators and government representatives.
Broader Reorganisation vs Sabotage Claims
Some observers accuse vested interests of trying to destabilise Dangote Refinery. They argue that anti-labour claims form part of a larger agenda to weaken the refinery’s performance and discourage competition. The refinery rejects this interpretation, calling the sabotage allegations misguided. It insists that reorganisation and deployment of new technology (like CNG trucks) aim to modernise operations without harming workers.
Impact on Workers and Job Security
Workers feel uncertainty amid public debate. Some worry reorganisation may affect wages, contracts, or status. Others welcome job creation promised under the CNG project, which the refinery claims will produce tens of thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Still, lack of clarity in contracts and fears of coercion amplify tension.
What Should Happen Next
To resolve the dispute, both sides should commit to open dialogue. Dangote must clarify policies around union membership and reassure workers that their rights remain protected. NUPENG should present evidence if it believes contracts contradict labour laws. Government and labour regulators should oversee compliance. Transparent policies help avoid misunderstandings and build trust.
Conclusion
Dangote Refinery’s denial of mass sack allegations highlights a tension between workforce reorganization and workers’ rights. While the company frames its actions as efficiency and transition-driven, NUPENG insists employees deserve clarity and protection. A lasting resolution depends on transparency, legal compliance, and genuine engagement with workers.
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