The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has demanded the Immediate and unconditional reinstatement of 800 oil and gas workers sacked by the management of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, or face industrial action.

In a statement by the Secretary General of TUC, Comrade Nuhu Toro, the union says such actions amount to a direct assault on Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution and on Nigeria’s obligations under International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.

According to the statement, the Union has placed all affiliates on stand-by for a national industrial action if Dangote management fails to comply with these demands within a reasonable time.

In a swift reaction, the Federal Government has called on PENGASSAN to reconsider its proposed strike over its dispute with Dangote Refinery.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, in a statement on Sunday, says his Ministry has taken steps to bring both parties to a round table to stop their dispute from escalating further.

Dingyadi disclosed that invitations have been extended to both the leadership of PENGASSAN and Dangote Refinery management to attend an emergency meeting in his office on Monday for the reconciliation of their dispute.

“I appeal to both parties to be mindful of the importance of the petroleum sector to the country, being the core of its economy. A strike will not only lead to heavy revenue losses by the country but also cause more hardship and difficulties for Nigerians. Consequently, it will have adverse impacts, both on economic stability and national security.” The Minister stated.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery, in a statement on Friday, says the Refinery management is embarking on reorganization to improve operational efficiency.

The statement also says the decision was taken in the best interest of the Refinery.