The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has announced the suspension of its nationwide strike, which began on Monday, September 27, following a dispute with Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical.
PENGASSAN President, Comrade Festus Osifo, made the announcement in Abuja this afternoon, explaining that the decision to suspend the strike was made out of respect for national institutions and the federal government’s mediation efforts.
While the union expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the government’s public statement on the issue, it warned that the strike would resume immediately and without notice if Dangote Refinery violates any agreements.
“We remain cautious and suspect Dangote may not honor the terms, but we are giving the government the benefit of the doubt. Should there be any breach, we will immediately restart the suspended strike without further notice,” Osifo cautioned.
The strike was initially called after Dangote Refinery reportedly dismissed 800 workers for forming a union, a move the company allegedly does not allow. The dismissed workers claimed they were replaced by 200 Indian nationals.
Following federal government intervention, a compromise was reached early Tuesday, including an agreement that Dangote Refinery will reinstate the dismissed workers.
