A coalition of civic groups, known as the Coalition for Economic Liberation and Social Justice, has urged Nigerians to resist what it describes as a plot by certain individuals within the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers to undermine the progress made in the oil and gas sector. The coalition claims that these individuals, backed by “oil principalities,” are attempting to derail the gains achieved in the sector, particularly with regards to the Dangote Refinery.
The Dangote Refinery, which has begun operations, is seen as a crucial step towards reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel. However, the coalition alleges that the refinery is being targeted by those who benefit from the status quo of fuel importation. The group claims that the leadership of NUPENG has been compromised and is being used to destabilize the industry.
According to the coalition, an agreement was reached between the parties involved, including the Department of State Services, the Minister of Finance, and the Ministry of Labour, which provided for workers’ unionization in line with existing labor laws. However, the coalition claims that NUPENG has reneged on this agreement and is instead engaging in sabotage.
The coalition is calling on Nigerians to be vigilant and to resist any attempts to undermine the progress made in the oil and gas sector. The group is also appealing to the federal government and security agencies to monitor the activities of NUPENG’s leadership closely and to prevent any attempts to weaken the refinery’s operations.
The coalition’s concerns are rooted in the potential consequences of allowing the refinery to be destabilized. Every kobo spent on importing fuel is seen as a direct theft of jobs, a sabotage of growth, and a burden on Nigerian households. The Dangote Refinery is viewed as a key intervention that has begun to break the chains of dependency on imported fuel, and the coalition is determined to defend it against those who seek to undermine its operations.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nigeria in its efforts to develop its oil and gas sector. The country has long been plagued by corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of investment in its energy infrastructure. The Dangote Refinery is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these challenges and reducing the country’s reliance on imported fuel. As such, the coalition’s concerns and the federal government’s response will be closely watched in the coming days.
