In a statement, the lawmaker urged stakeholders to pursue constructive discussions rather than fueling division and sensationalism in the media. Reports indicate that recent industrial action by the union led to depot shutdowns, citing the refinery’s refusal to allow its truck drivers to join the union as stipulated by the Trade Union Act.
Additionally, fuel importers have accused the refinery of undermining competition by offering lower prices to international traders compared to local marketers. The senator expressed concern over negative media portrayals of Dangote, emphasizing that such narratives harm the country’s interests.
He highlighted that previous administrations granted refinery licenses to private operators, many of whom failed to act, while Dangote took the initiative to invest in domestic refining. The lawmaker stressed the need to balance labor rights with national development, avoiding unnecessary conflicts that hurt ordinary citizens.