The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has demanded an unreserved apology and immediate reinstatement of workers allegedly dismissed by the management of Dangote Refinery. The union condemned the sackings, describing them as unlawful, unjust, and an affront to the rights of workers who, according to them, have been subjected to unfair treatment at the multibillion-dollar facility.
In a statement issued by its leadership, the TUC accused the refinery’s management of disregarding labour laws and international conventions that protect workers from arbitrary termination. The union insisted that no company, regardless of its size or economic significance, should operate above the law or subject workers to victimization for exercising their rights.
The TUC alleged that the dismissals were targeted at employees who had raised concerns about working conditions, welfare, and other operational challenges within the refinery. According to the union, rather than address the grievances, the management resorted to punitive measures by terminating their contracts. This, the TUC argued, sends a dangerous signal that stifles freedom of association and workers’ voices in the country’s industrial sector.
Describing the action as “a direct assault on the dignity of labour,” the TUC said it expects the management of Dangote Refinery to issue a public apology to the affected workers and Nigerians at large. The labour body also stressed that the sacked employees must be reinstated without delay to avoid further escalation of the matter.
The union warned that failure to comply with its demands would attract nationwide industrial action, as it is prepared to mobilize its affiliates in solidarity with the affected workers. It vowed that the organized labour movement would not allow the rights of Nigerian workers to be trampled upon, especially by corporations enjoying enormous benefits within the country’s economy.
The TUC also called on the Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies to intervene in the dispute, emphasizing that silence on the matter could embolden companies to engage in further anti-labour practices. It insisted that the protection of workers must remain a priority for both government and employers in order to sustain industrial harmony.
While reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, the union said it will not hesitate to adopt more drastic measures if its demands are ignored. It maintained that the Dangote Refinery, touted as Africa’s biggest industrial project, must lead by example in upholding global best practices on workers’ rights and welfare.
