The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has expressed displeasure over what it described as the anti-labour practices perpetuated by Dangote Refinery.

PENGASSAN, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa, accused the private refinery of unjustly terminating the employment of over 800 Nigerian workers.

“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,” the association stated.

It said that the termination not only undermined the livelihoods of the citizens but also raised 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,” it said.

PENGASSAN, however, warned that it would not tolerate the “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”.