NUPENG Strike: Call Dangote To Order – Falana To FG

Renowned Human Rights Lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has urged the Federal Government to wade into the brewing labour crisis at Dangote Refinery over allegations that the company is compelling newly hired drivers to sign contracts barring them from joining existing oil and gas unions.

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) had on Friday announced that its members would down tools from Monday, September 9, 2025, in protest against what it described as Dangote Refinery’s attempt to undermine workers’ rights.

NUPENG said its members would also begin seeking alternative employment if the policy is not reversed.

According to the union, the refinery is making “frantic efforts to restrain its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tanker drivers from affiliating with labour unions.”

PTD, DTCDA Distance Selves From Strike

Meanwhile, the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) and the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA) have both dissociated themselves from NUPENG’s planned strike, saying they would not participate in the industrial action.

‘Policy Violates Constitution and Treaties’ – Falana

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Reacting on Sunday, Falana condemned the refinery’s alleged move, describing it as unconstitutional and illegal.

“The Dangote Group’s policy contravenes Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, amongst others,” he said.

The senior advocate further argued that the policy also breaches several international conventions and agreements ratified by Nigeria, which guarantee workers’ freedom of association.

Falana called on the Federal Government and relevant labour authorities to urgently intervene to avert what could become a major disruption in the oil and gas sector.

He warned that any attempt to suppress workers’ rights to unionise would not only trigger industrial unrest but also undermine Nigeria’s obligations under both domestic and international law.