The National Industrial Court, Abuja, has granted an interim injunction restraining the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and Petroleum Truck Drivers from blocking roads or shutting down Dangote Group’s operations.
Justice E.D. Subilim issued the order on Wednesday after counsel to Dangote Refinery, George Ibrahim (SAN), filed an ex parte motion dated September 15, 2025, along with originating processes and a motion on notice.
In his ruling, Justice Subilim stated:
“An interim injunction is hereby granted restraining the 2nd Defendant/Respondent, its members, agents, servants, privies, representatives, assigns, or whatsoever and howsoever called from joining, continuing, further embarking on, or in any manner participating in the planned industrial action declared by the Defendant/Respondent or any other strike whatsoever against the Claimants/Applicants with a view to frustrating their businesses and operations pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”
The interim order is expected to last for seven days, pending further hearing.
The ruling follows weeks of tension between NUPENG and Dangote Refinery. The union, along with the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), accused the refinery of anti-labour practices and attempts to stifle competition.
Dangote Group Chairman, Aliko Dangote, has repeatedly dismissed the allegations, describing them as baseless.
Earlier this month, NUPENG and its affiliate unions paralysed fuel distribution on September 8, 2025, before the Federal Government intervened. But after talks broke down, the union threatened to resume strike action, leading to the refinery’s legal move.