Key Points:
- Dangote Refinery lets go Nigerian staff after union push. A leaked memo cites “total reorganisation” and “sabotage” at units.
- Most staff had joined PENGASSAN within a day. The sack comes soon after that mass sign up.
- The note orders gear return and exit checks with managers. Payment of due pay and perks will then begin.
News broke on Wednesday of a big shake at Dangote. Dangote Refinery cut ties with its Nigerian staff in one sweep. A memo spread online set out the bold, blunt move. It said a “total reorganisation” will now drive plant work.
Imran Wakili shared the news on X with proof. He said most staff joined PENGASSAN just a day before. The memo bears 25 September, signed by Femi Adekunle. It links the cuts to “sabotage” found in some plant units.
What the Dangote memo says
The notice told staff to hand back all company gear. Line heads must clear exits and close outstanding files. Finance will pay due pay and perks under each signed deal. The note thanks staff for work done at the plant.
It frames the change as a “total reorganisation” at scale. Managers cite “sabotage” flagged in parts of the plant. A date for hand back steps will come from leads. The firm says more notes will guide the next days.
Union push and past flashpoints
The layoff came right after a strong union push. Ninety percent joined PENGASSAN, per Wakili’s post and memo. PENGASSAN had warned Dangote on union rights two weeks ago. Talks with the firm had dragged with no clear end.
Unions had also halted fuel runs from the site this month. They fought a plan for a private truck fleet. Loads later resumed after quick talks eased the tense mood. But fresh rows now raise new fears on fuel flow.
Meanwhile, power staff began a fresh strike across the grid. The electricity workers strike raised talk of wide, hard blackouts. Both rows add heat to markets and to homes. People fear long queues and new jumps in pump price.
Only days ago, the firm cut its gantry petrol price. It set a day for direct drop to buyers too. The Dangote petrol price cut drew cheers in many towns. Today’s row could cloud that plan if tempers rise again.
As at press time, the firm had not replied. Press lines rang out; staff saw no fresh public note. PENGASSAN is yet to post a formal press line. More firm notes may yet land as talks move
