PENGASSAN Disowns Report Linking Union to Allegations Against TotalEnergies

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has distanced itself from a media report alleging that the union accused TotalEnergies Nigeria Limited of maltreating Nigerian employees and breaching local content regulations.

In a statement issued by its National Secretariat, PENGASSAN expressed concern over a publication in a national newspaper which claimed that the association had raised allegations of harassment of Nigerian workers by expatriates, racism, and violations of the Nigerian Local Content Act against the oil company.

The union clarified that it neither released any statement nor provided any document to the media regarding the matter. According to PENGASSAN, the publication relied on an internal document exchanged between employees and management without proper authorisation, describing the development as a breach of confidentiality and privacy.

PENGASSAN emphasised that it operates through a structured communication system, noting that only its National Leadership is empowered to issue official statements on behalf of the association. While acknowledging the right of individuals and groups to express concerns on issues of public interest, the union warned against the use of its name to legitimise unverified claims, stressing that such actions could fuel workplace discord and harm the reputation of the association and the broader oil and gas sector.

The association also clarified that it has no affiliation with the group identified as MIND, which was mentioned in the report.

Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining industrial harmony, PENGASSAN stated that it would continue to engage stakeholders through dialogue and constructive channels to safeguard the welfare and professional interests of its members. The union further noted that it would not support sensational or unverified allegations capable of destabilising the industry.

PENGASSAN disclosed that it has commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding the alleged breach and pledged to take necessary disciplinary measures against those found responsible. It also urged stakeholders and the public to disregard any statement purportedly issued by the association that does not originate from its National Secretariat.