Court Stops NUPENG, Truck Drivers From Blocking Dangote Refinery Operations

The National Industrial Court in Abuja has restrained the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and petroleum truck drivers from blocking roads or disrupting operations at the Dangote Refinery.

The interim injunction, granted on Wednesday following an ex parte motion filed by Dangote Refinery’s counsel, George Ibrahim (SAN), bars the unions and their affiliates from engaging in actions capable of obstructing refinery activities pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The court’s decision comes amid ongoing disputes between NUPENG and the refinery management over labour rights, particularly the unionisation of truck drivers in Dangote’s new fleet. While NUPENG has accused the refinery of undermining workers’ freedom of association, Dangote Group insists that employees are free to join unions and dismissed the allegations as unfounded.

Civil society groups have also waded into the matter, accusing NUPENG of coercive tactics and economic sabotage by attempting to force workers into union membership and threatening disruptions. The groups warned that such actions could jeopardise the operations of a national strategic asset.

International reports indicate that earlier strikes and protests by truck drivers had disrupted fuel supply in some parts of the country before government mediation led to a temporary truce. Industry watchers warn that further disruptions could affect both domestic fuel distribution and Nigeria’s export ambitions.

The Dangote Refinery, which recently began production, is regarded as critical to Nigeria’s energy security and economic stability, with capacity to meet local fuel demand and reduce reliance on imports.

The case has been adjourned for further hearing, with the court urging all parties to resolve their differences through dialogue.