A coalition of civic groups called 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 (NUPENG) to undermine progress in the oil and gas sector. The coalition claims these individuals, backed by “oil principalities,” are trying to derail gains achieved in the sector, especially concerning the newly operational Dangote Refinery.
The Dangote Refinery is viewed as a crucial step toward 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. It asserts that NUPENG’s leadership has been compromised and is being used to destabilize the industry. According to the coalition, an agreement was reached among the Department of State Services, the Minister of Finance, the Ministry of Labour, and other parties to allow workers’ unionization in line with existing labor laws. The coalition says NUPENG has reneged on this agreement and is instead engaging in sabotage.
The group is calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to undermine progress in the oil and gas sector. It also appeals to the federal government and security agencies to closely monitor NUPENG’s leadership and prevent actions that could weaken the refinery’s operations. The coalition argues that every kobo spent on importing fuel is a direct theft of jobs, a sabotage of growth, and a burden on Nigerian households. The Dangote Refinery, they contend, is a key intervention that is beginning to break the country’s dependency on imported fuel, and they are determined to defend it against those who seek to undermine its operations.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges Nigeria faces in developing its oil and gas sector, which has long been plagued by corruption, mismanagement, and insufficient investment in energy infrastructure. The Dangote Refinery is seen as a crucial step toward addressing these challenges and reducing reliance on imported fuel. Consequently, the coalition’s concerns and the federal government’s response will be closely watched in the coming days.
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