Sources said a WhatsApp group created by PENGASSAN officials led to the dismissal of some Dangote Refinery workers.
The dismissal of workers at the Dangote Refinery has been linked to a WhatsApp group created by officials of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), sources told PREMIUM TIMES.
According to insiders, PENGASSAN invited refinery staff to join the union and created a WhatsApp group where forms were shared and daily reports about operations were requested. Management reportedly viewed the activity as a breach of trust and sabotage.
Dangote Group later announced the sackings, citing repeated acts of sabotage that threatened safety and efficiency. A letter signed by Femi Adekunle, Chief General Manager of Human Asset Management, stressed that the move was necessary to “safeguard the refinery.”
PENGASSAN responded by directing members to withdraw services and disrupt gas supply, prompting federal government intervention. The industrial court in Abuja ordered a halt to the strike. On Wednesday, PENGASSAN suspended its action after both sides reached a reconciliation agreement mediated by the government.