The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has called off its nationwide strike targeting the Dangote Group, following several days of significant disturbances within the oil and gas industry.
The strike, which commenced on Sunday, September 28, was initiated in response to the termination of over 800 employees who had voluntarily affiliated themselves with the union.
At a press conference held in Abuja yesterday, PENGASSAN president, Comrade Festus Osifo, stated that the decision to halt the strike was made out of respect for governmental institutions and the ongoing mediation efforts that extended into the early hours of Wednesday.
Despite the suspension, the union expressed dissatisfaction with the five-point agreement previously endorsed by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mohammed Maigari Dingyadi.
Osifo revealed that although PENGASSAN harbored serious reservations about Dangote’s commitment to the agreement, the union chose to suspend the strike as a gesture of good faith.
“The communiqué was signed solely by the government because we found several aspects of it unsatisfactory,” he explained.
“Upon reviewing the document, we identified numerous ambiguities and loopholes, which we promptly communicated to the government. They reassured us of their vigilance and commitment to overseeing the matter,” he added.
“We are aware that Dangote has a history of disregarding agreed terms. We remain skeptical about his adherence to this deal. Nevertheless, out of respect for institutional processes, government efforts, and the officials who worked tirelessly until nearly 4 a.m. to resolve this issue, the National Executive Council has chosen to heed their call,” Osifo continued.
The union leader underscored that the suspension is temporary and contingent upon compliance.
“It is important to note that this is a suspension, not a cessation. We will be vigilantly monitoring any breach by Dangote or any violation of the agreement as outlined by the Ministry of Labour. Should any part of the agreement be broken, we will immediately reinstate the strike without prior notice or warning,” he cautioned.
Osifo also extended gratitude to the government officials who intervened to facilitate dialogue.
“We appreciate the National Security Advisor for taking decisive action, as well as the Director-General of the Department of State Services, who remained engaged until the early hours. We also thank the Chief Reconciliator of the Federation, the Minister of Labour and Employment, supported by the Ministers of Finance and Budget and Economic Planning, alongside industry leaders and key officials within the Petroleum Ministry, including the Permanent Secretary,” he concluded.
