LAGOS — The nationwide distribution of petroleum products has ground to a halt as the strike by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) against the Dangote Petroleum Refinery enters its second day.
The industrial action, which began on Sunday, has led to the closure of depots across the country, crippling loading activities and paralysing fuel lifting operations. With filling stations running on dwindling reserves, the strike is already causing long queues in Lagos and other major cities.
A source at the Satellite Depot confirmed the total shutdown of operations. “Stocks are being depleted at filling stations due to limited supplies. If the dispute isn’t resolved within 72 hours, there will be a fuel price crisis. Filling station owners may begin adjusting their pump prices to take advantage,” the source said.
The impact is already being felt on the streets as motorists scramble to secure fuel. In many parts of Lagos, stations that still have products are witnessing long lines, while some have closed completely due to lack of supplies.
Why NUPENG is Striking
The union has accused the Dangote Petroleum Refinery of undermining labour rights, particularly with regards to workers’ welfare, conditions of service, and union recognition. According to NUPENG leaders, the refinery has sidelined collective bargaining agreements and failed to integrate tanker drivers and depot workers into its operational framework.
Union officials argue that unless these issues are addressed, the strike will continue indefinitely. “We cannot allow workers’ rights to be trampled on at the largest refinery in Africa. The refinery cannot operate outside established labour practices,” one union leader emphasised.
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Vice President of the Oil and Gas Service Providers Association (OGSPAN), Lawal Kamaldeen, acknowledged the concerns raised by NUPENG but urged caution. He noted that the Dangote Refinery remains a critical asset for Nigeria’s energy future and has already created jobs while reducing dependence on imported petroleum products.
“While workers’ welfare is paramount, we must also consider the broader benefits of having the Dangote Refinery in full operation. A prolonged strike risks undermining the refinery’s contribution to stabilising Nigeria’s energy market,” Kamaldeen said.
Industry experts have warned that if the strike persists, Nigeria could face a severe fuel crisis, with scarcity spreading rapidly and pump prices rising beyond government control. Independent marketers are already bracing for supply disruptions, while transport operators fear the ripple effect of higher fuel prices on commuting costs.
What Lies Ahead
Efforts are ongoing to mediate between the union and Dangote Refinery management, with the Federal Ministry of Labour expected to step in. However, until a resolution is reached, the fuel distribution chain across Nigeria remains at a standstill.
For motorists and businesses, the wait is now tense. If the dispute is not resolved quickly, the second day of strike action may mark the beginning of another round of nationwide fuel scarcity.
