In a bold statement, Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has called on President Bola Tinubu to dissolve the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) if the union continues prioritizing private interests over public welfare.
His remarks come in the wake of PENGASSAN’s directive for a nationwide strike in response to the Dangote refinery’s dismissal of over 800 workers.
The Dangote refinery has accused the union of weaponizing hardship against Nigerians through its industrial action. During an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time, Ndume expressed his long-standing opposition to unionism that he believes serves the interests of a select few at the expense of the nation.
“This PENGASSAN is meant to represent the interests of Nigerians, especially given that their work involves petroleum products essential to everyday life,” Ndume stated. He emphasized that in a free country like Nigeria, no one should be coerced into union membership.
Criticizing PENGASSAN for attempting to impose demands on the Dangote refinery, he asserted, “Dangote is a private businessman; you cannot impose your will on him. If you want to be a union, then stay out of his business.”
Ndume accused the union of holding the Nigerian populace “by the neck,” questioning their legitimacy as representatives of oil and gas resources they do not own. He pointed out their silence during crucial events in the oil sector, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the soaring fuel prices.
He urged President Tinubu to take decisive action, suggesting an executive order to dissolve PENGASSAN. “In this case, I wouldn’t mind if he acted like a dictator because some situations require drastic measures,” he concluded.
As tensions rise in the oil sector, the outcome of this situation could have significant implications for workers and the economy at large.
