Okay News reports that the House of Representatives has taken steps to mediate the ongoing disagreement between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the management of Dangote Refinery over labour-related issues.
This move followed a motion raised during plenary on Tuesday by a member representing a Lagos constituency, who expressed concern that the dispute, if not properly addressed, could affect industrial harmony and disrupt operations at the refinery — one of Nigeria’s most strategic economic assets.
According to the lawmaker, reports of tension between the union and the refinery management were disturbing, especially given the refinery’s crucial role in reducing the nation’s dependence on imported petroleum products. He stated that immediate intervention by the legislature was necessary to protect the interests of both parties and prevent a potential crisis in the oil sector.
The House consequently mandated its Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Midstream) to engage both PENGASSAN and the Dangote management, with the aim of resolving the disagreement amicably.
Lawmakers stressed that industrial peace in the oil and gas sector is essential for Nigeria’s economic stability, urging the parties to prioritize dialogue and cooperation over confrontation.
The Speaker of the House reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to ensuring that major investors like Dangote Refinery operate within fair labour standards while guaranteeing that workers’ rights are respected under existing laws.
