The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing dispute between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Group. The NLC is calling on the President to ensure the Dangote Group complies with labour laws and international conventions.
The appeal comes after NUPENG announced plans to commence a nationwide strike on Sunday, citing the Dangote Group’s “anti-union practices, monopolistic agenda, and indecent industrial relations strategies.” NLC President Joe Ajaero made the request in a statement, asking the President to instruct Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Sayyu Dantata to respect national and international law.
The NLC has accused the Dangote Group of exploiting Nigerian workers and disregarding their constitutional rights to unionise and bargain collectively. The congress has condemned the group’s “anti-union, anti-worker, and monopolistic practices” and demanded the immediate unionisation of Dangote Refinery and its subsidiaries.
Preparations are underway for a united resistance in solidarity with NUPENG, including possible industrial action. The NLC has stated that it will take action if the Dangote Group continues its “reckless anti-union path.” The congress has emphasized that the working class will not be sacrificed for corporate gain.
The dispute between NUPENG and the Dangote Group has significant implications for Nigeria’s energy sector and the rights of workers in the industry. The NLC’s intervention highlights the need for compliance with labour laws and international conventions to protect workers’ rights and promote fair industrial practices.
As the situation unfolds, the NLC’s call for President Tinubu’s intervention may lead to a resolution or further escalation. The outcome will depend on the actions taken by the parties involved and the government’s response to the NLC’s appeal. The development is being closely watched, and the next steps will be crucial in determining the future of industrial relations in Nigeria’s energy sector.