Dangote :PENGASSAN threats may trigger fuel scarcity

By Abubakar Yunusa

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has raised the alarm that a directive by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) to halt crude oil and gas supply could plunge the country into another round of fuel scarcity.

The company, in a statement on Saturday, described the move as “criminal, reckless, and an act of economic sabotage.”

It warned that enforcing the directive would disrupt the nationwide supply of essential petroleum products such as petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene, and cooking gas.

“These products are indispensable to daily life and the economy,” the refinery said. “From households to businesses, every Nigerian will feel the impact of such shortages.”

It questioned the motive behind the union’s action, saying there was no justification for inflicting “insufferable hardship” on citizens.

Beyond consumer impact, Dangote said the disruption could slash government revenue, noting that the refinery is among the country’s largest taxpayers and a significant contributor to both federal and state coffers.

The company warned that the move could damage investor confidence and embarrass the nation, describing the refinery as a “strategic national asset” deserving special protection.

“An irreparable injury to Dangote Refinery will serve as a disincentive to potential investors who see our project as a model for investment,” it added.

Dangote urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intervene immediately to prevent fuel queues, price hikes, and energy shortages.

It called on PENGASSAN to embrace legal and peaceful dispute resolution rather than “mob action” capable of plunging the nation into chaos.

PENGASSAN had earlier directed members to cut gas supplies, accusing the refinery of sacking workers for exercising their right to unionise.

Dangote confirmed a “small number” of staff were affected in what it called a reorganisation exercise.