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A civic group, Frontier Waves, has expressed concern over recent remarks made by Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South regarding the ongoing dispute between the Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). The group urged President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians to approach the issue with caution, citing the importance of upholding democratic principles.
During an appearance on Arise Television on Monday, Senator Ndume called on President Tinubu to take decisive action, including issuing an executive order, to address the crisis, which stems from the alleged dismissal of 800 refinery workers. He suggested that strong measures, potentially resembling authoritarian action, might be necessary to resolve the impasse.
“The best thing is for the president to sign an executive order calling them off. He has the right to dissolve them,” Ndume said. “In this case, I don’t mind if he acts like a dictator because some situations require very drastic measures.”
He also criticized what he referred to as “so-called unionism” that, in his view, prioritizes the interests of a few individuals over national stability.
In response, Frontier Waves released a statement signed by its President, Oluwa Vincent, and Secretary, Ramsey Nede, in which it expressed disappointment in the senator’s comments. The group argued that such statements could undermine democratic institutions and the constitutional rights of labor unions.
“We expected Senator Ndume to offer constructive, unifying advice to the president, especially in a situation involving workers’ welfare,” the group stated. “Trade unions like PENGASSAN and NUPENG play a vital role in protecting the rights of workers and should not be dismissed or disbanded through executive action.”
The group also emphasized that trade unions are legally recognized entities under the Nigerian constitution, and have historically contributed positively to the country’s labor landscape.
“As lawmakers, senators should advocate for peaceful resolutions and promote dialogue between parties,” the statement continued. “Encouraging the suppression of democratic organizations may set a dangerous precedent.”
Frontier Waves urged the government to continue engaging all stakeholders in resolving the dispute and reaffirmed the need for maintaining democratic norms and respect for the rule of law.
