Dangote Petroleum Refinery has said membership of trade unions by its employees remains voluntary and not compulsory, in line with the Nigerian Constitution and International Labour Organisation conventions.
The company stated this in a release on Wednesday while responding to what it described as “distortions of facts” by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers concerning its trade relations with workers.
The refinery said it does not interfere with or restrict employees’ right to freely join legally recognised unions.
“It is therefore misplaced to attribute responsibility to Dangote Petroleum Refinery for the personal choices made by drivers regarding union affiliation,” the company stated.
Dangote dismissed allegations that it forced drivers to sign contracts barring union membership, describing the claim as unfounded. It urged NUPENG to focus on resolving its internal dispute with the Petrol Tanker Drivers unit rather than “embroiling the refinery in its conflicts.”
The company added that accusations of union suppression formed part of a broader attempt to undermine private sector progress.
“Dangote Petroleum Refinery maintains a cordial and cooperative relationship with all recognised trade unions, including NUPENG. We have consistently supported their legitimate activities within our facility, including providing office space and enabling member engagement and dues collection without interference,” it stated.
The refinery also reaffirmed support for mediation efforts by the Ministry of Labour and urged NUPENG to respect the ongoing dialogue process.
“We urge NUPENG to act in good faith, respect the ongoing dialogue process, and refrain from making statements that could undermine national economic recovery efforts led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,” the statement said.
