Dangote vs PENGASSAN: Peter Obi Makes Cryptic Call on FG

• The Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN's face-off has continued to generate mixed reactions from concerned Nigerians
• Peter Obi, a 2027 presidential hopeful, urged the federal government to step into the matter, adding that the interests of everyone should be protected
• Obi lamented that the strike embarked upon by PENGASSAN has started having side effects on Nigerians and the Nigerian economy

Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential hopeful, has called on the federal government to immediately intervene in the dispute between Dangote Refinery and Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), saying that the situation has started having an "adverse effect" on Nigerians and the country's economy.

PENGASSAN has recently ordered its members across the country to shut down operations over the allegation that Dangote sacked 500 of its Nigerian workers and replaced them with Indians.

PENGASSAN fights against Dangote Refinery

The strike has led to a shutdown in the downstream oil sector, and there are reports that the shortage of gas supply may affect the country's electricity if the strike lasts longer than expected.

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PIA under threat? Nigerians mobilise against FG’s alleged plan to sell oil assets

But Obi, in a social media post on Monday, September 29, appealed for the immediate intervention of the federal government on the dispute between the union and the private company, Dangote.

He called for a win-win manner of protection of "the Nigerian people, Nigerian workers, Nigerian Investors and the Economy at large." He pointed out that the dispute between the union and Dangote has the potential to inflict problems on the Nigerian people.

Meanwhile, Vanguard reported that the federal government has stepped into the matter, talking to Dangote and the leadership of PENGASSAN. It was reported that the union did not have a turning back.

Nigerians react as Obi speaks on Dangote, PENGASSAN

However, Obi's comment has started generating reactions from some Nigerians. Below are some of their reactions:

Abdul-Aziz Na'ibi Abubakar called the strike a move to sabotage Dangote Refinery operations:

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"It seems Dangote Refinery is still facing sabotage by the owners of the Malta oil blending plant!"

Megamixer described PENGASSAN's action as reckless:

"PENGASSAN’s action is reckless. Cutting crude and gas supply and forcing shutdowns at critical nodes is economic sabotage at a time the country is bleeding. The union has ordered halts to Dangote Refinery feedstock and operations at key oil and gas agencies, with credible warnings of price spikes and power disruptions.

"The Federal Government must move now. Convene an emergency tripartite session, secure minimum service levels, and promptly clip the wings of those weaponising the essential energy supply. Ongoing outreach by Labour authorities should translate into binding timelines, transparent terms, and immediate protections for citizens and investors.

"Nigeria cannot afford further downgrading of the economy. Stabilise supply today, enforce the law impartially, and resolve legitimate labour issues without holding the country to ransom."

Joe Jeff wrote:

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"The welfare of Nigerian workers in these so-called indigenous companies is terrible. Presently, in the oil and gas industry, indigenous oil and gas producing companies are paying peanuts that can't sustain a family of 4. DPR is a cash-making industry if you're lucky enough to be a DPR staff member. Oil and gas exploration industries now rely on contract staff to run operations and make billions. These operators that is paid peanuts are said to be the supposed owners of these assets. Nigeria needs an overhaul and a positive change."

Oranmiyan wrote:

"This is coming from someone who allowed doctors to go on strike for 13 good months. Wonders shall never end."

See the full Obi's statement here:

Group kicks against move to sell oil assets

Legit.ng earlier reported that the plan by the Nigerian government to sell critical oil assets has received pushback from Nigerians

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MURIC sends message to Tinubu's govt as PENGASSAN declares nationwide strike amid feud with Dangote

The National Rebirth Movement (NRM) has decried the planned sale of the assets by the government, labelling it as asset stripping

The group disclosed that Nigerians will resist the move, kicking against the amendment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)

Source: Legit.ng