The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has formally declared former Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, persona non grata following his public criticism of a recent industrial action by oil and gas workers.
The union expressed outrage over Oshiomhole’s remarks regarding the strike action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) against the Dangote Refinery, accusing him of siding with employers at the expense of workers’ rights.
In an interview aired on Arise Television last Friday, Oshiomhole condemned the strike, labeling it “ill-considered.”
He argued that emerging private sector businesses like the Dangote Refinery should be given time to stabilise before facing labour-related disruptions.
“An employer has to exist, mature and be strong enough to guarantee good-paying jobs,” Oshiomhole said.
“If you cripple a business before it even finds its feet, you are also destroying the jobs you claim to protect.”
Oshiomhole also criticised the broader impact of the strike, suggesting it negatively affected ordinary Nigerians, such as traders and transporters, due to fuel shortages.
But NUPENG fired back with a strongly worded joint statement signed by its President, Williams Akporeha and General Secretary, Olawale Afolabi, rejecting Oshiomhole’s position and accusing him of betraying labour ideals.
“Senator Oshiomhole has effectively aligned himself with anti-labour interests,” the union said.
“He has chosen to rationalise the unjust sacking of over 800 engineers for simply exercising their right to unionise.”
The union stated that, moving forward, Oshiomhole would no longer be welcome at any of its events, nor would he be recognised as a legitimate voice in matters concerning oil and gas workers.
“The leadership of NUPENG hereby declares Senator Adams Oshiomhole persona non grata within the ranks of Nigerian oil and gas workers,” the statement declared.
“His comments represent a dangerous toxin aimed at weakening the labour movement and emboldening those who exploit workers.”
NUPENG described Oshiomhole’s stance as a betrayal of the trade union movement he once led, calling it a “monumental disgrace” and likening his actions to those of Judas Iscariot.
“Oshiomhole has lost all moral authority to speak on labour issues,” the statement continued.
“We urge him to retire from labour commentary entirely.”
Reaffirming its solidarity with PENGASSAN and the affected workers, NUPENG vowed to continue pursuing justice using all available legal and industrial means, in accordance with national and international labour laws.
“We remain committed to protecting the rights and livelihoods of Nigerian oil and gas workers,” NUPENG said.
“The struggle continues.”
