Nigeria’s oil worker unions, NUPENG and PENGASSAN, have petitioned President Bola Tinubu to investigate claims that International Oil Companies (IOCs) are sabotaging the Dangote Refinery. The unions, representing petroleum and natural gas workers, expressed concern over the allegations and their potential impact on Nigeria’s economic development.

The Allegations:

• In a letter dated July 1st, 2024, NUPENG and PENGASSAN accused IOCs of deliberately hindering the Dangote Refinery’s operations.
• The alleged tactics include denying crude oil supply and inflating market prices, forcing the refinery to source oil from abroad at a higher cost.

Why it Matters:

• The unions view the Dangote Refinery as a critical national asset, essential for energy security, economic growth, and job creation.
• They emphasize the importance of domestic refining capacity to reduce reliance on imported products and save valuable foreign exchange.

Union Demands:

• The unions urge the government to establish an independent panel to investigate the allegations comprehensively and transparently.
• They call for public disclosure of the investigation’s findings to maintain public trust.
• If the accusations are proven true, the unions advocate for legal action against the involved IOCs, including sanctions and penalties.
• Additionally, they request government support to ensure the smooth operation of the Dangote Refinery, including security measures.

Looking Ahead:

• The petition highlights potential conflicts between international oil companies and domestic refining efforts in Nigeria.
• The government’s response to the investigation and its actions to support the Dangote Refinery will be crucial in ensuring a stable and secure energy sector for the nation.