The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, has condemned the nationwide strike declared by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), describing it as reckless, self-serving, and a direct sabotage of Nigeria’s economy.
In a strongly worded statement on Sunday, Gabam said the union’s decision to shut down the oil and gas sector — with the Dangote Refinery singled out as a target — was a grave misstep that could unleash widespread hardship on ordinary Nigerians.
“This declaration by PENGASSAN is nothing short of sabotage against the Nigerian people,” Gabam said. “By ordering members to withdraw services and crippling the Dangote Refinery, the union is putting livelihoods at risk, threatening fuel supply, and exposing the country to price shocks and instability.”
He warned that the phased shutdown of operations would inevitably lead to scarcity, higher pump prices, and disruptions to businesses and households already under economic strain.
Gabam argued that the strike was less about genuine workers’ welfare and more about narrow, self-serving interests.
“Nigerians must resist any attempt to hold the country hostage,” he said. “Targeting the Dangote Refinery shows this action is not about fairness but about undermining progress in the oil and gas sector. The government must stand firm and refuse to be blackmailed into granting concessions that hurt the nation.”
Expressing solidarity with the federal government, the SDP chairman reaffirmed his support for policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and ensuring energy security.
“I stand with the Nigerian government in its drive for growth and development,” Gabam said. “Our economy cannot afford to be derailed by selfish interests. Nigerians must remain vigilant, united, and focused on progress.”
His remarks come as concerns mount over the wider impact of the industrial action, with fears of fuel scarcity, inflationary pressure, and disruptions across critical sectors if the strike persists.