The Federal Government has stepped into the brewing crisis between the Dangote Group and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), summoning both parties to an emergency meeting in Abuja today.
Labour Minister Muhammadu Dingyadi convened the talks in a last-minute attempt to prevent a nationwide strike endorsed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
The strike, already causing panic buying at filling stations, is expected to disrupt fuel supply chains and worsen inflation if not quickly resolved.
NUPENG has accused the Dangote Group of anti-union activities, low wages, and creating a hostile work environment.
The union condemned a new policy that bars drivers from joining oil and gas unions, describing it as a clear violation of the Labour Act and international conventions.
“This marks a dangerous road to fascism in industrial relations, where workers are treated as slaves without voice or dignity,” NUPENG leaders warned in a statement.
Despite the government’s intervention, union officials insisted the strike would continue until their concerns were fully addressed.
An official added: “Though we will attend the meeting to show readiness for dialogue, the strike goes on until all the issues are resolved.”
At the center of the crisis is the creation of the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association (DTCDA).
NUPENG dismissed the group as a “management-inspired fraud” allegedly designed to weaken organised labour.
The union linked the new association to Dangote and MRS Energy Limited, sparking further outrage among workers who view the move as an attempt to sidestep their bargaining power.
Meanwhile, the NLC has thrown its weight behind NUPENG, mobilising its 54 affiliates and 36 state councils for solidarity action.
President Joe Ajaero described Dangote’s actions as a direct attack on organised labour in Nigeria.
“An attack on one union is an attack on all. If we allow the Dangote Group to succeed, no industry or worker in Nigeria will be safe. It will set a perilous precedent that capital is above the law,” Ajaero warned.
In Edo State, the NLC declared total support for the strike, advising residents to stock up on fuel.
“The Edo council will mobilise all affiliates in solidarity. We advise workers and the public to get petroleum products that will last the duration of this industrial action, as filling stations will be closed,” the council said.
Economists caution that the Dangote–NUPENG strike could cripple the economy if prolonged.
Transport, power, and manufacturing sectors are most at risk, while inflationary pressure could worsen hardship for ordinary Nigerians.
Queues have already begun forming at fuel stations, with black-market prices rising in major cities.
The outcome of today’s Abuja meeting will be crucial. If both parties fail to reach a compromise, Nigeria may face one of its most disruptive strikes in recent years.
