By Tgnews Reporter, Abuja
A coalition of prominent Nigerians, including Osita Chidoka, Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, and Bishop Matthew Kukah, has issued a joint statement addressing the recent labour disputes at the Dangote Refinery, hailing its resolution through government-mediated dialogue while warning of the broader implications for Nigeria’s economic stability.
The statement highlights the refinery’s transformative impact, noting a 55% drop in petrol prices from N1,500 to N820 per litre in some regions, easing transport and food costs. Described as a “national lifeline,” the refinery is seen as a symbol of Nigeria’s potential to break free from decades of reliance on fuel imports, subsidy waste, and crumbling state-owned refineries.
The signatories emphasized three key principles: respecting workers’ rights, protecting productive enterprises, and ensuring corporate accountability.
They cautioned that unchecked industrial actions risk deterring investment at a critical time, urging disputes over market dominance or pricing to be handled by institutions like the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) rather than strikes that harm citizens.
Praising the government, labour unions, and Dangote Refinery for resolving the crisis through dialogue, the group called for this approach to become a model for future conflicts.
They stressed that the refinery’s success is vital for jobs, energy security, and curbing inflation, urging all stakeholders to safeguard Nigeria’s industrial progress.
“This is about whether we choose scarcity and rent-seeking or productivity and shared prosperity,” the statement concluded, positioning the refinery as a beacon for domestic investment.
The signatories include influential figures like Aisha Yesufu and Arunma Oteh, underscoring the urgency of unity to secure Nigeria’s economic future.
