The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has strongly rejected the proposed sale of SHELL onshore assets, raising concerns about the credibility and track record of the speculated acquiring group.
PENGASSAN contends that the entities forming the group are unknown and lack a proven history in effectively managing diverse assets.
In a statement titled “Position of PENGASSAN on the planned sale of SHELL onshore assets,” Lumumba Okugbawa, the General Secretary of PENGASSAN, expressed worry about one of the companies within the assemblage, citing a history of mistreatment of workers, particularly in the management of OML 34.
Furthermore, PENGASSAN highlighted another company’s troubling approach towards workers’ unionization, emphasizing that this could adversely impact the conditions of service for employees.
As a strong response to these concerns, PENGASSAN has issued a nationwide strike notice, indicating the seriousness of its opposition to any attempt to transfer the assets without first addressing the issues affecting its members.
The association has warned that such an action would face significant resistance, setting the stage for a potential industry-wide confrontation.