The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN) have called for an investigation into allegations that International Oil Companies (IOCs) are plotting to undermine the operations of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals.
A letter jointly signed by the unions stressed the importance of transparency and public trust in the findings of the investigation.
Lately, there have been claims and rebuttals surrounding allegations of sabotage directed at the Dangote refinery.
Aliko Dangote, the chairman of the refinery, has persistently asserted that there is a group within the IOC with serious motives to obstruct the operation of his refinery.
Commitment to growth of the oil sector, Nigeria’s economy
The letter, signed by NUPENG’s General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, and PENGASSAN’s General Secretary, Lumumba Okugbawa, reads: “The leadership and members of our great Union and Association profoundly appreciate your commitment and dedication to restoring the economic growth and prosperity of our dear Nation, and we are also fully mobilised and committed to supporting your laudable thoughts and hard decisions towards these lofty goals.”
It also said that the unions are concerned over the impact of such allegations on the already struggling oil sector.
“Unfortunately, we are deeply concerned and shocked by the recent unusual allegations by the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company of a deliberate plot by some International Oil Companies (IOCs) to frustrate their business efforts and continued existence,” the letter read.
The unions emphasised that the impact of the purported acts of sabotage included depriving the refinery of its supply of crude oil and driving up market prices.
It said this has forced the Dangote Refinery to source its crude oil from as far away as the United States resulting in expensive operation and logistical expenses for the refinery.
“The Dangote Refinery is not only a critical national asset but also a beacon of hope for our energy security, economic growth, and employment opportunities.
“The economic benefits of a local refinery with such capacity as Dangote’s in Nigeria can never be overstated,” the letter added.
