Bishop Mathew Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, along with 12 other prominent Nigerians, has stepped into the ongoing conflict between Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over labor disputes. In a joint statement, the group stressed the importance of protecting workers’ rights to unionize while warning against actions that could deter investors. They noted that recent strikes sent negative signals to potential investors at a critical time for Nigeria’s economy.
The group highlighted the refinery’s role as a national asset, pointing out its impact in reducing petrol prices from ₦1,500 to ₦820 per liter in some areas, a 55% drop that has eased transport and food costs. They emphasized that the refinery, a major domestic investment, is vital for jobs, energy security, and curbing inflation, but industrial disputes must be managed to avoid discouraging investment.
The statement underscored the constitutional right to fair treatment and union organization, but cautioned that strikes shouldn’t hold the economy hostage. The group also dismissed concerns about monopoly, noting that institutions like the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission exist to address such issues, and other investors are free to enter the refining market.
Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, attributed the recent cooking gas scarcity and price hikes to the PENGASSAN strike, which also led to a loss of 200,000 barrels per day in crude oil production. The group praised the government and Dangote Refinery for resolving the dispute through dialogue and urged continued constructive engagement to avoid future disruptions.
Other signatories included Abubakar Siddique Mohammed, Aisha Yesufu, Arunma Oteh, Atedo Peterside, Dr. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, Dudu Mamman Manuga, Ibrahim Dahiru Waziri, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, Obonganwan Barbara Etim James, Opeyemi Adamolekun, Osita Chidoka, and Senator Sola Akinyede. They emphasized that the crisis reflects broader economic challenges, calling for a focus on productivity, fairness, and prosperity to strengthen Nigeria’s future.
