Peter Obi on PENGASSAN strike urges swift government intervention to end refinery labour crisis and protect Nigerians from worsening hardship

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Obi criticised what he described as the government’s slow and inadequate response to the crisis, warning that it was already compounding the hardship of ordinary Nigerians.

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“I am worried about the lack of response by the Government to the threat and eventual commencement of a strike by PENGASSAN, which is already having a very adverse impact on Nigerian citizens and the Nigerian economy,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that immediate dialogue between the union and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery was essential to safeguard jobs and national stability.

He insisted that government’s foremost duty was to protect citizens, workers, investors, and the economy.

Obi further cautioned that failure to act decisively could deepen the suffering of Nigerians already grappling with economic hardship.

“The Federal Government must learn to nip in the bud the labour crisis that has the potential of creating further suffering for the already struggling citizens of our dear country,” he warned.

The PENGASSAN strike, which began on Monday, followed the dismissal of over 800 workers at the Dangote Refinery, allegedly for joining the union.

The industrial action has paralysed operations at several key oil and gas institutions, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and regulatory bodies.

While the Federal Government has appealed to PENGASSAN to suspend the strike, the Trade Union Congress is demanding the unconditional reinstatement of the sacked workers.