NUPENG Threatens Mass Action Against Dangote, Dantata’s Alleged Monopoly in Oil Sector
Published: September 5, 2025 | Author: Nigeria Business Watch
Union Raises Alarm Over Alleged Monopoly
The Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has issued a stern warning, threatening to embark on a nationwide industrial action against business moguls Aliko Dangote and Sayyu Dantata. The union accuses the two oil magnates of fostering a monopoly in Nigeria’s downstream oil sector, a situation it says poses grave danger to workers, smaller businesses, and the entire economy.
According to NUPENG, the control exerted by Dangote Refinery and the operations linked to Dantata have significantly reduced competition, leaving indigenous marketers struggling to survive. The union emphasized that unless urgent interventions are made, Nigeria risks sliding into an era where a few individuals dictate the availability and pricing of petroleum products.
What Sparked the Tension?
Tensions escalated after reports surfaced that Dangote Refinery and other affiliated companies were allegedly restricting access for smaller independent marketers while enjoying government-backed privileges. This, NUPENG argues, is gradually eroding the principles of fair trade in Nigeria’s oil sector.
The union expressed concerns that fuel distribution, pricing, and supply chains may soon fall entirely under the control of a handful of players, creating artificial scarcity and price hikes for ordinary Nigerians.
NUPENG’s Demands
- Immediate government intervention to checkmate monopolistic practices.
- Policies to protect smaller oil marketers from being squeezed out of the market.
- A fair and transparent pricing system accessible to all players.
- Assurances that workers’ rights will not be trampled by corporate dominance.
Potential Economic Impact
Should NUPENG proceed with its planned strike, the consequences could be severe. The union controls a major share of Nigeria’s fuel distribution network, and a mass action could result in fuel scarcity, price inflation, and nationwide economic disruption.
Analysts warn that if the issue is not resolved quickly, it could affect transportation, manufacturing, and even electricity supply — sectors heavily reliant on petroleum products.
Government’s Role
The federal government has yet to issue an official statement, but insiders suggest that key ministries may soon hold meetings with NUPENG leaders to avoid a nationwide crisis. Industry stakeholders have also called for competition-friendly policies to ensure a balance between big corporations and smaller marketers.
Final Thoughts
The face-off between NUPENG and two of Nigeria’s most influential oil barons highlights th