Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, stated that workers’ right to associate is not only protected by the constitution but is also a God-given right.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, the former Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) president emphasized that freedom of association is a fundamental value that must be upheld.
His comments come amid the ongoing trade dispute between Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
Oshiomhole noted that both employers and employees have rights under trade union laws, including the choice to join or not join unions.
However, he expressed concern over PENGASSAN’s escalation of the dispute, which threatens a shutdown of the oil sector.
He warned that while unions must defend workers’ rights, such actions should not jeopardize the employment of others in the industry.
He said: “This is a complex issue. Speaking honestly, I have been involved in labour matters since I was 18, rising to the presidency of the NLC. I believe association is not merely a constitutional right but a God-given right for people to unite over shared interests, as protected under Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution.
“The trade union laws recognize both the right to belong to a union and the right to refuse association, which balances the rights of employers and employees.
“I don’t know all the details, but when disputes arise, such as why an employee was dismissed and the union claiming unfairness, the union bases its actions on fairness as they see it.
“What concerns me is the quick escalation to secondary action, threatening to shut down the oil sector. Protecting one group of workers should not risk the jobs of many others. Balancing this is the challenge.”
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