Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The leadership of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has expressed its profound outrage regarding the recent anti-labour practices perpetuated by Dangote Refinery. This was contained in a statement signed by Comrade Lumumba Ighotemu Okugbawa, General Secretary, Petroleum, and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) which reads in part: “We are deeply saddened to report the unjust termination of over 800 Nigerian workers, whose dedication and service have been integral to the operations of this plant. Instead of valuing and retaining this workforce, Management has chosen to replace these qualified Nigerians with over 2,000 Indian workers, many of whom lack valid immigration documentation.”
According to PENGASSAN, the move not only undermines the livelihoods of citizens but also raises serious concerns about the integrity of labour practices and compliance with the Labour Act of Nigeria. Under Section 7 of the Labour Act, which prohibits discrimination and ensures the right to fair treatment in the workplace, the actions of Dangote Refinery are glaringly in violation of our labour laws. The dismissal of such a significant number of Nigerian workers without due consultation or any transparent justification contravenes the legal rights granted to all employees in Nigeria.
“Furthermore, PENGASSAN is of the opinion that it will not tolerate this blatant disregard for the rights of Nigerian workers, particularly in light of the existing provisions under the Trade Union Act, which enshrines the right of workers to organise and join trade unions. The recent organisation of these workers as members of PENGASSAN underscores their collective power and right to protection under the law”.
The labour Association emphasised that such actions illustrate a troubling trend towards the marginalisation of Nigerian workers in favour of foreign labour, which we can not, and will not, tolerate. The sacrifice and talents of our workforce deserve respect, and we demand accountability from employers who possess a social responsibility to the communities they operate in.
Notwithstanding, PENGASSAN would be remiss to overlook the broader implications of Dangote Group’s capitalistic pursuits beyond the confines of the refinery sector. Instances of exploitative practices have been reported in various sectors where the company maintains significant business interests. The relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of local talent, ethical employment practices, and community welfare is unacceptable.
The Association therefore urges the management of the Dangote Refinery to recall all terminated Nigerian workers. It said: “Failure to comply will leave us with no option but to commence exploring all sections of the Nigerian Constitution and the relevant labour laws. We stand resolute in our commitment to uphold the rights of Nigerian workers and will take all necessary legal actions open to us as an Association to ensure that they are afforded the dignity and respect they deserve. ”
PENGASSAN said it has scheduled an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to direct the Association on the way forward. “We call on all Nigerians, therefore, to support this cause and to stand against the exploitation of our workforce by capitalists who seek to undermine our national priorities for their profit. This slave labour of our brothers and sisters must not be tolerated or supported, as injury to one is injury to all, “it also added.
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