The Dangote Refinery has come under fire after reports surfaced that some Nigerian employees were sacked for allegedly joining the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). The affected workers claim they were targeted simply for exercising their right to unionize, sparking outrage among labour groups and human rights advocates.

PENGASSAN has strongly condemned the move, describing it as a violation of workers’ rights and the Nigerian Labour Laws. The union has vowed to take up the matter, demanding the immediate reinstatement of the dismissed employees and warning that failure to do so could lead to nationwide industrial action.

The incident has also triggered debates on corporate governance and employee welfare within the oil and gas sector. Many Nigerians on social media have expressed disappointment, insisting that a company as large as Dangote Refinery should lead by example in respecting workers’ rights and promoting fair labour practices.