Wonders, indeed, shall never end in Nigeria. About six years ago, before I accepted a lecturing position at Elizade University, it took me an entire month to make the decision. Why? Because it was clearly stated in the employment offer that staff members were not allowed to participate in union activities or engage in agitations of any sort.
At the time, I found this clause disturbing—it felt like a form of institutional enslavement. Those who know me understand that I am strongly opposed to oppression and bad governance. However, considering I was in the fourth year of my PhD programme and needed a stable, low-profile role, I eventually accepted the offer.
The point of this story is simple: Employment terms are usually stated upfront, and staff are expected to accept or decline them based on informed choices. It is problematic to accept an offer and then attempt to restructure the organization from within.
Dangote Refinery is a *private entity*, and like all such businesses, it reserves the right to determine the operational dynamics of its workforce. If union participation is restricted, it should be respected—unless legally challenged and overturned.
Why do we not hear about serious union activities in Nigerian banks? Although a skeletal structure exists, most banking unions serve more of a ceremonial than a functional purpose.
In conclusion, I urge both parties—PENGASSAN and the management of Dangote Refinery—to consider the larger interest of the people. Dangote is a businessman who has invested heavily, and it is only natural that he would resist any form of sabotage. Historically, wherever unionism becomes overly aggressive, institutions tend to suffer or collapse.
Let’s aim for dialogue and mutual respect—not disruption.
By Tosin Adesile
