Nigerians have taken to social media to express their support for the Dangote Petroleum Refinery amidst its dispute with the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG. The union recently embarked on a nationwide strike, shutting down petrol distribution over alleged anti-labour practices by the refinery. The strike was sparked by the refinery’s plan to deploy 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks for fuel distribution.
The Federal Government had convened a meeting to address the crisis, but NUPENG reportedly shunned the session. The outcome of the meeting has not been made public. Despite this, some Nigerians have rallied behind the Dangote Refinery, expressing their support on social media platforms. They argue that the refinery’s innovation should not be hindered by the union’s actions.
On social media, some users voiced their support for the refinery, with one user stating that Nigerians stand with the Dangote Group. Another user praised the refinery, saying it is the only business leader that prioritizes the needs of ordinary citizens. A professor also weighed in, using an analogy to explain that businesses should be allowed to innovate without interference from unions.
However, not all Nigerians are in support of the refinery. Some have expressed solidarity with NUPENG, which has received backing from other leading unions in the country, including the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners, and the Nigerian Labour Congress. The NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, has stated that the refinery’s actions could have far-reaching consequences, taking the country back to the days of slavery.
The dispute between the Dangote Refinery and NUPENG has significant implications for the country’s oil and gas industry. The refinery’s plan to deploy compressed natural gas-powered trucks is seen as a move towards innovation and efficiency. However, the union’s concerns about job losses and anti-labour practices must also be taken into account. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the dispute will be resolved and what impact it will have on the industry.
