The nationwide strike by members of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) continues after a high-stakes meeting with the Federal Government and Dangote Group failed to yield an agreement.
The stakeholders’ session, convened by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, lasted until 11 p.m. at the ministry, but no resolution was reached. Some unionists staged a brief walkout during the talks, returning without any breakthrough.
NUPENG and allied unions are protesting Dangote Refinery’s handling of worker welfare, recognition of union rights, and integration of drivers and depot staff. Dangote Group’s representative, Sayyu Dantata, reportedly refused to sign the MoU, deepening the impasse.
Nigeria Labour Congress spokesperson, Comrade Benson Upah, confirmed the deadlock, stating: “No agreement was reached. The action continues, and the strike will persist until meaningful dialogue occurs.”
If unresolved, analysts warn of an imminent fuel shortage and potential nationwide price hikes.
Groups Call for Decentralised Pipeline Surveillance Contracts
The Southern Ijaw Unity Forum (SIUF) and the Committee for Transparency and Good Governance (CTGG) have urged the Federal Government to decentralise pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta.
SIUF warned that centralising contracts under single individuals fuels resentment and illegal bunkering, while CTGG cautioned that awarding contracts to non-indigenous companies could escalate tensions in the region. Both groups called for inclusive management that benefits all affected communities.
El-Rufai Petitions Police Service Commission Over Alleged Misconduct
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Inspector-General of Police over alleged misconduct by senior officers of the Kaduna State Police Command.
The petition follows police invitations to El-Rufai and six ADC members for questioning over alleged criminal conspiracy and disturbance of public peace. El-Rufai’s team attended in his stead, citing concerns over police complicity in an attack on an ADC meeting.
Legal experts, however, criticised El-Rufai for not appearing in person, noting that accused individuals are generally expected to respond personally to police inquiries. The APC denied any involvement in the attacks.
Tinubu Government May Turn to Fintechs for Loans – Dino Melaye
Former Senator Dino Melaye has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over rising public debt, suggesting the government may soon rely on fintech platforms like Opay for loans.
Melaye highlighted billions in international borrowing, warning that Nigeria’s debt could surpass N200 trillion before year-end. He also condemned perceived government extravagance amid widespread hunger.
FCT Doctors’ Strike Disrupts Medical Services
A seven-day strike by resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has left public hospitals deserted, forcing patients to seek private care.
The strike, staged by the Association of Resident Doctors, cites systemic failures, unpaid allowances, and poor working conditions. Hospitals across all six FCT area councils reported minimal service, with nurses and consultants attending only urgent cases.
Officials warn the strike could become indefinite if demands are not met, affecting all 14 district hospitals and primary healthcare centres.
US Arrests Convicted Nigerian in Immigration Crackdown
Rotimi Oladimeji, a previously convicted Nigerian, has been arrested by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for illegal immigration.
Oladimeji, convicted in December 2023 of mail and wire fraud and ordered to pay over $1.1 million in restitution, was taken into custody in New Orleans. He is among thousands apprehended under intensified federal operations targeting criminal immigrants.
Police Investigate Corpse Found at National Assembly Car Park
Authorities in Abuja are investigating the discovery of a decomposed male body inside a red Peugeot 406 at the National Assembly car park. The FCT Police Command confirmed the incident and said efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased.
Senate Bars Suspended Senator from Resuming Office
The Senate has informed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that she cannot return to office despite completing a six-month suspension.
A letter from the Acting Clerk cited a pending Court of Appeal case against the Senate, stating that no administrative action can be taken until judicial proceedings conclude. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension stems from alleged insubordination and disputes over office seating arrangements.
South Korean Women Sue US Military Over Forced Prostitution
Over 100 South Korean women, once forced to work as prostitutes for US soldiers, have filed a lawsuit seeking compensation and an apology from the US military.
The plaintiffs allege decades of abuse at state-sanctioned brothels, with some forced into sexual slavery as teenagers. The lawsuit follows a 2022 ruling against the South Korean government for illegally operating such brothels.
NCAA Summons 13 Domestic Airlines Over Flight Disruptions
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called an emergency meeting with 13 domestic airlines to address flight delays, cancellations, and passenger welfare issues.
The agency warned airlines to comply with civil aviation regulations or face sanctions, including “naming and shaming” of persistent offenders. The meeting will discuss passenger handling protocols, compensation, and enforcement of safety measures.
Trump Launches Immigration Raids in Chicago
The Trump administration has initiated “Operation Midway Blitz” in Chicago to target “criminal illegal aliens,” escalating tensions with local authorities.
Illinois officials criticized the operation as uncoordinated and fear-inducing, while Trump defended it as a measure to protect Americans from violent criminals. Public protests erupted in response, highlighting opposition to federal enforcement tactics.
Oil Workers Strike Continues; Fuel Prices May Rise
NUPENG’s strike against Dangote Refinery has disrupted fuel distribution nationwide, with depots closed and queues forming at filling stations.
Industry experts warn that continued disruption may trigger fuel price hikes, while stakeholders urge urgent resolution to avoid further economic strain.
