By Ayomide Otitoju
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has come under heavy criticism after threatening to cut gas supply to the Dangote Refinery, a move many Nigerians described as sabotage against citizens who rely on the facility for cheaper and more stable fuel.
The dispute emerged following reports that Dangote Refinery allegedly laid off workers shortly after mass unionisation efforts began at the company. The refinery has denied the claims, insisting that over 3,000 Nigerians remain in active employment.
In reaction, PENGASSAN warned that it could deploy its influence by halting gas supply to the refinery, a step that could disrupt the steady fuel supply Nigerians have enjoyed since the plant began operations over a year ago.
Rather than win public sympathy, the union has faced a wave of backlash online, with many Nigerians accusing it of prioritising vested interests over public welfare. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Dangote- and PENGASSAN-related hashtags trended for hours as users expressed frustration.
Critics argued that oil unions like PENGASSAN and NUPENG have long failed to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians, yet are quick to resist reforms that threaten their influence.
One user, @Oluwakayode77, wrote: “Every institution that has taken it upon itself to be barbaric and wicked will be dealt with by the progress and development of this nation. Nigerians are no longer your pawns.”
Another, @SolihullAbdul, asked: “PENGASSAN or whatever, do you want the market to remain monopoly? You’ve been doing what you want for many years. It’s time for change.”
Others dismissed the union’s threat as irrelevant. @CurtisAbbi posted: “Nigerians will manage the Greek gift. @pengassan what gift have you given Nigerians in your entire years of existence? Stop playing the victim.”
Some users urged collaboration rather than confrontation. @Temidayo argued: “What benefits has your union provided for Nigerians? Instead of sabotaging, why not collaborate? If Dangote can do it, buy shares and contribute too.”
The federal government, through the Ministry of Labour and the Department of State Services (DSS), is said to be monitoring the dispute and considering mediation between both parties.
PENGASSAN maintains that the refinery has frustrated workers’ collective bargaining rights, while Dangote insists union membership remains voluntary and that its focus is on reducing costs and ensuring steady fuel supply.
For many Nigerians, however, the message is clear: they want affordable fuel, fair competition, and a refinery that works — not another round of power tussles.
