NUPENG Threatens Nationwide Shutdown Over Alleged Anti-Union Policies by Dangote, Dantata

The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has issued a stern warning of an impending nationwide shutdown, citing what it describes as “anti-union and unlawful practices” by prominent industrialists Aliko Dangote and his cousin, Sayyu Aliu Dantata, through their energy company, MRS Holdings.

According to NUPENG, the alleged infractions include systematic attempts to weaken union activities, suppression of workers’ rights, and intimidation of employees seeking to organize within the oil and gas sector. The union stressed that these actions are not only a violation of Nigeria’s labor laws but also a direct attack on the welfare and dignity of workers in the industry.

In a strongly worded statement released on Friday, NUPENG leadership said:

“We will not fold our arms while our members are subjected to anti-union practices. If these injustices persist, we have no choice but to mobilize for a nationwide industrial action that will ground the supply and distribution of petroleum products across the country.”

The potential shutdown could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s already fragile economy, particularly in the energy sector. With the union controlling critical manpower in petroleum product distribution, fuel scarcity and disruptions in transportation and electricity supply could follow swiftly if the strike is enforced.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment has reportedly invited both parties to the negotiation table in a bid to avert the looming crisis. Industry observers warn that failure to resolve the dispute could trigger a ripple effect across multiple sectors, including transportation, manufacturing, and household energy supply.

As of press time, neither Dangote Group nor MRS Holdings had issued an official response to the allegations.