FENRAD condemns mass sack of 800 workers by Dangote Refinery, demands reinstatement, dialogue

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Stanley Ihedigbo

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) has strongly condemned the reported mass termination of over 800 Nigerian workers by the management of Dangote Refinery.

According to the Executive Director, FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the action, coming at a time of significant economic hardship, rising unemployment, and social discontent across the country, is not only unjust but economically and morally indefensible.

FENRAD viewed the layoffs as a gross violation of both the Nigerian Labour Act and the Local Content Act, particularly if it is confirmed that the disengaged Nigerian workers are being replaced by expatriate labour without adherence to due process and statutory local employment quotas.

“We are deeply concerned by credible allegations that many of the affected workers had recently joined the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), suggesting a possible retaliatory motive against union activity, in breach of Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees freedom of association.

“At a time when Nigeria’s unemployment rate remains alarmingly high, FENRAD calls on the management of Dangote Refinery to act with the utmost sense of corporate responsibility and national interest. The refinery, being a project of critical national importance, must not set a dangerous precedent of union suppression, disregard for local labour laws, and exploitation of Nigerian workers under the guise of internal restructuring.

“We demand the following immediate and unconditional reinstatement of all affected workers unjustly terminated without due process. Transparent and independent review of the claims of sabotage or misconduct cited by Dangote Refinery to ensure fair and lawful action. Full compliance with the Local Content Act, including a public audit of the company’s workforce composition, expatriate quotas, and immigration documentation.

Constructive engagement with PENGASSAN and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to negotiate a fair and enforceable agreement that protects the rights and welfare of workers going forward. Oversight by relevant government agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), and the Nigeria Immigration Service, to ensure regulatory compliance.

“FENRAD stands in solidarity with PENGASSAN, NLC, and all affected workers. We urge the federal government not to remain indifferent but to intervene swiftly to avoid further escalation and potential disruption to the country’s already fragile industrial and economic environment.

“We reiterate: No worker should be punished for exercising their constitutional right to join a union. No private entity—however large—should be allowed to operate above the law or in contravention of the national interest”, he stressed.