The National Industrial Court, Abuja, has granted an interim injunction halting industrial action by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association, shielding the Dangote Refinery from a potential shutdown.
Ruling Wednesday, Justice E.D. Subilim barred unions from blocking roads, disrupting operations, or compelling truck drivers to strike. The order, valid for seven days, came after the refinery’s counsel, George Ibrahim (SAN), argued that refinery operations faced “irreparable damage” without judicial intervention.
The case will be reassigned after court vacation ends September 23.
Tensions between Dangote Refinery and unions have escalated in recent months. NUPENG accused the refinery of anti-union practices, including allegedly forcing drivers to remove union stickers and sign undertakings against joining unions. The refinery denied this, saying it supports voluntary membership and respects labour rights.
In its defence, Dangote said over 30 refinery licences had been issued to private players and dismissed monopoly allegations. The firm stressed its $20bn facility is central to stabilising Nigeria’s fuel supply.
Unions, however, remain on red alert. NUPENG insists intimidation tactics — including alleged use of naval patrols — breach agreements signed in the presence of federal ministers.
The refinery’s dispute has triggered national debate over labour rights versus industrial stability in Nigeria’s critical energy sector.
Byline: IDNN Business & Economy Desk
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