PENGASSAN Strike: NNPC, Regulators Threatened with Fuel Supply Disruption
- A nationwide strike by oil and gas workers over alleged wrongful dismissals threatens fuel supplies and power generation.
- A nationwide strike initiated by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) began on Monday, September 30, 2024, disrupting operations at key oil and...
- The core issue driving the strike is the alleged wrongful dismissal of approximately 800 workers at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
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Nigeria Fuel Supply at Risk as PENGASSAN Strike Halts Oil & Gas Operations
Table of Contents
A nationwide strike by oil and gas workers over alleged wrongful dismissals threatens fuel supplies and power generation. the Labour Ministry’s intervention will be crucial in resolving the dispute.
Strike Details and Initial Impact
A nationwide strike initiated by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) began on Monday, September 30, 2024, disrupting operations at key oil and gas facilities across the country. The action raises concerns about potential fuel scarcity and interruptions to power supply. The strike commenced at midnight on september 29, 2024, following a directive from PENGASSAN’s National Executive Council.
The core issue driving the strike is the alleged wrongful dismissal of approximately 800 workers at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. PENGASSAN is demanding a resolution to the dispute and reinstatement of the affected employees.
Operational Disruptions Confirmed
Reports indicate significant disruptions at several key regulatory bodies.Activities at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Nigerian Upstream petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) have been brought to a standstill.
At the NUPRC headquarters in abuja, the main gate was reportedly locked, preventing staff from entering the premises. Security personnel confirmed adherence to the strike order. Similar complete shutdowns were observed at the NMDPRA headquarters in the Central Business district, with full staff compliance.
Tony iziogba, PENGASSAN Chairman at the NMDPRA, confirmed “100 per cent compliance” with the strike action, as of initial reports.
Background: Dangote Refinery and Labour Relations
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, a 650,000 barrels per day integrated refinery, is a significant investment in Nigeria’s downstream sector. Dangote Industries Limited aims to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel. However, the alleged mass dismissal of workers raises concerns about labour practices at the refinery.
While details surrounding the dismissals remain contested, PENGASSAN alleges the terminations were unjust and violated labour laws. The union is seeking a fair and obvious examination into the matter.
| Agency | Reported Status (Sept 30, 2024) |
|---|---|
| NNPCL | Operations halted |
| NUPRC | Headquarters gate locked, staff barred from entry |
| NMDPRA | Complete shutdown, 100% compliance reported |
The Role of the Labour Ministry