We Had No Choice” – Dangote Exposes Plot Behind Refinery Staff Dismissals
We Had No Choice” – Dangote Exposes Plot Behind Refinery Staff Dismissals
The Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, has shed light on the reasons behind the company’s recent internal restructuring.
The clarification follows widespread speculation and criticism after reports surfaced alleging that more than 800 workers were laid off from the Dangote Group, prompting outrage from labour unions and industry observers.
Speaking during a media briefing at the Dangote Refinery in Lagos on Friday, Edwin revealed that the reorganisation was not related to labour disputes but rather a direct response to multiple sabotage attempts aimed at disrupting refinery operations.
According to him, the company recorded 22 separate incidents of sabotage, which threatened the safety and efficiency of Africa’s largest refinery.
Edwin emphasized that the move was a necessary step to protect the integrity and long-term sustainability of the multibillion-dollar project, adding that all measures were taken in the interest of security and operational stability.
He dismissed rumours linking the restructuring to the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), describing such reports as “completely false.”
“They said we have an issue with PENGASSAN — that’s totally untrue,” Edwin said. “When we met with the minister and security agencies, I made it clear that our concern was not with any union but with the increasing cases of sabotage. We’ve recorded 22 incidents — all documented, with exact dates, units, and locations.”
He further disclosed that some of the incidents involved attempted fire outbreaks, but quick responses and advanced safety systems prevented major damage.
“Fortunately, our refinery is ultra-modern,” he added. “When someone attempts to start a fire, the fire protection system immediately detects and controls it. By God’s grace, none of these attempts succeeded.”
Edwin reaffirmed that the Dangote Group remains committed to maintaining operational excellence and ensuring the refinery continues to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey toward energy independence.
