Dangote Petroleum Refinery (DPR) has denied allegations by Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) that it engages in anti-labour practices.
Gatekeepers News reports that on September 5, NUPENG threatened a nationwide strike from September 8 over alleged anti-union activities at the refinery.
The strike was later suspended on September 9 following the intervention of the federal government, regulators, and other stakeholders.
However, on September 11, the union placed its members on red alert for a possible resumption of the suspended action after a fresh dispute.
In a statement on Thursday, Dangote Refinery described the accusations as
entirely unfounded, stressing its commitment to constitutionally protected labour rights and affirming that workers are free to join any recognised union.
It said, “Assertions that drivers are compelled to waive union rights are categorically false.”
The refinery clarified that the disagreement concerns NUPENG’s Petrol Tanker Drivers (PTD) unit and not any violation of workers’ rights by the company.
It also rejected claims that its introduction of 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks would eliminate jobs, explaining instead that the initiative is central to Nigeria’s energy transition.
It said, “The deployment of CNG-powered trucks is a strategic initiative designed to support national energy transition goals, not to displace existing jobs.”
The refinery noted that each truck would employ a six-member team with pay above the national minimum wage, as well as benefits including pensions, health cover, housing allowances, and access to loans.
The company emphasised that it complies fully with Nigeria’s deregulated oil sector overseen by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
It also noted that more than 30 refinery licences have been granted to other players, including BUA, Aradel, Walter Smith, and Edo Refinery.
Dangote refinery further denied any plans to raise fuel prices, pointing out that diesel costs have dropped by over 30% in the past year and that petrol prices in Nigeria are currently lower than in Saudi Arabia and about 40% cheaper than in neighbouring West African countries.
It further highlighted a ₦720 billion investment in CNG infrastructure aimed at reducing logistics costs and strengthening fuel distribution nationwide.
The refinery said that it maintains cordial relations with trade unions, including NUPENG, and dismissed claims of walking out of conciliation talks. It added that the union did not formally communicate its grievances before going public.
Reiterating its commitment to responsible business practices, the company labelled monopoly claims as recycled falsehoods and encouraged other private operators to increase investments in Nigeria’s economic future.
