By Oke Peter
An oil and gas expert, Mr. Dan Kunle, has alleged that individuals responsible for crippling Nigeria’s public refineries are now using unionism, particularly the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), as a shield to sabotage the operations of the Dangote Refinery.
Mr. Kunle made the statement during an interview on Arise News, monitored by our correspondent on Sunday evening.
Reacting to the proposed strike action declared by PENGASSAN and its potential impact on the nation, he criticized the union’s stance and questioned its contribution to the oil and gas sector over the years.
“Dangote Refinery has the right to hire and fire. This PENGASSAN threat cannot hold. It’s an old gimmick, and it won’t work. “What value has PENGASSAN really added to the development of the oil sector?” Kunle asked.
He, however, assured Nigerians that the Dangote Refinery has sufficient reserves to meet the country’s fuel needs, urging the public not to panic.
“This attempt to cripple Dangote Refinery won’t succeed,” he added.
Kunle also cautioned the union to act within the confines of the law, warning against actions that could sabotage private investment.
“PENGASSAN and its backers should be very careful. They should not drag us backward or undermine the efforts of a private investor,” he warned.
He further called on the Federal Government to intervene and rein in the leadership of the union to prevent disruptions in the country’s energy sector.
