The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has raised alarm over the dismissal of Nigerian employees at Dangote Refinery, claiming they were replaced with foreign workers.

In a statement on Friday, the union alleged that more than 800 Nigerians lost their jobs, while over 2,000 Indians—some without valid immigration documents—were brought in to take their positions.

PENGASSAN described the action as unfair and unacceptable, demanding that the refinery recall all affected staff immediately. The union warned that if its demands were ignored, it would take action under the Nigerian Constitution and existing labour laws.

According to the union, the development is another sign of the company’s growing disregard for the rights of local workers. It vowed not to stand by while Nigerians are sidelined in favour of foreigners.

Dangote Refinery, however, denied claims of mass retrenchment. The company explained that only a small group of employees had been let go, alleging sabotage as the reason, and insisted that it was still hiring.

With tensions mounting, PENGASSAN announced that its national leadership would meet over the weekend to decide on further steps.