The ongoing tension between Dangote Refinery and Nigeria’s petroleum unions took a decisive turn on Wednesday as the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Abuja, granted an interim injunction restraining the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum Truck Drivers from embarking on industrial action against the refinery, barring the intend NUPENG and NLC strike.
The ruling, delivered by Justice E.D. Sublim, was issued following an ex-parte order filed by Dangote Refinery’s legal counsel, George Ibrahim, SAN, alongside the originating processes and motion on notice dated September 15, 2025.
Justice Sublim stated, “An interim injunction is hereby granted restraining the 2nd Defendant/Respondent, its members, agents, servants, privies, representatives, assigns, or whatsoever and howsoever called from joining, continuing, further embarking on, or in any manner participating in the planned industrial action declared by the Defendant/Respondent or any other strike whatsoever against the Claimants/Applicants with a view to frustrating their businesses and operations pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”
The court order, expected to last seven days, temporarily bars NUPENG and its affiliate unions from blocking roads, halting refinery operations, or causing disruption to Dangote Refinery’s supply chain.
Court Bars NUPENG and NLC Strike to Protect Refinery Operations
The court bars NUPENG and NLC strike as a measure to safeguard uninterrupted operations at Dangote Refinery, the nation’s largest oil-processing facility with a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.
The injunction is seen as a major win for Dangote Group, which has consistently maintained that its operations comply with labor laws and industrial regulations.
The conflict between Dangote Refinery and NUPENG intensified in early September when the unions threatened industrial action following alleged disputes over labor conditions and competition practices.
On Monday, September 8, NUPENG and its affiliates temporarily paralyzed fuel distribution across Nigeria before the Federal Government intervened.
Aliko Dangote, president of the refinery, dismissed union allegations, emphasizing that Dangote Refinery prioritizes employee welfare and compliance with regulations.
“The claims by NUPENG and DAPPMAN are unfounded,” Dangote said in a recent media briefing. “Our focus remains on efficient operations, energy security, and delivering products to Nigerians.”
The latest court ruling effectively restrains the NUPENG and NLC strike from escalating the industrial standoff, while giving the court time to examine the issues raised in the ex-parte application and associated motion on notice.
The court bars NUPENG and NLC strike ruling carries significant implications for Nigeria’s energy sector.
By halting potential industrial action, the injunction ensures continuity in fuel supply, prevents disruption of refinery operations, and stabilizes market confidence in the country’s largest private oil firm.
Industry analysts suggest that a prolonged NUPENG and NLC strike could have led to severe fuel shortages, price spikes, and economic strain for businesses and consumers.
The court’s intervention is viewed as a proactive measure to maintain operational stability while balancing labor rights and corporate interests.
This ruling also underscores the judiciary’s role in resolving industrial disputes in Nigeria, particularly in sectors critical to national infrastructure and economic security.
Analysts argue that legal oversight provides a structured framework for negotiation, discouraging unilateral action that could harm the public and national economy.
While Dangote Group celebrated the injunction, some civic organizations have expressed concerns over union suppression, urging both parties to pursue dialogue.
The court order is temporary, and unions may still engage in lawful negotiations to address grievances.
NUPENG leaders have not yet released an official response, but sources indicate that the union is reviewing the court ruling and may file a motion to challenge the injunction or seek clarification.
Civic groups have warned against coercive tactics that could undermine collective bargaining, advocating for transparent labor negotiations.
The dialogue between Dangote Refinery and NUPENG remains crucial to avoiding further escalation and ensuring long-term industrial harmony.
Dangote Refinery’s management reaffirmed its commitment to employee welfare, emphasizing compliance with national labor laws, competitive remuneration, and investment in workplace safety.
The refinery also highlighted its contribution to energy security, economic development, and job creation.
“The injunction allows us to continue our operations without disruption, while we remain open to constructive engagement with our workforce,” a refinery spokesperson said.
“Our aim is to ensure both industrial peace and uninterrupted fuel supply to Nigerians.”
As Nigeria’s largest privately-owned refinery, Dangote’s operational stability is vital to the nation’s energy supply chain.
The court ruling provides temporary relief while maintaining the legal framework for addressing labor disputes.
The court bars NUPENG and NLC strike ruling is a pivotal development in Nigeria’s petroleum sector, highlighting the balance between industrial rights and economic stability.
The outcome underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding critical national infrastructure and provides a platform for structured negotiations between unions and private enterprises.
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