By Emma Ogoigbe, Warri
Vice‑Chancellor (VC) of Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Professor Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, has denounced a claim by Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) that the university authorities did not allow labour to unionize relevant staff of the institution, saying it was not a true reflection of realities on ground.
The VC clarified that the university’s actions were in line with existing laws and court judgments.
According to Professor Agbalagba, PENGASSAN’s claims of intimidation and unilateral decisions by the university management in that regard are “unfounded.”
He explained that a 2022 judgment of the National Industrial Court (NIC) had ruled that PENGASSAN is not entitled to unionize senior staff at FUPRE.
Citing the provisions of the Trade Unions Act, Agbalagba noted that while conditions of service for the university’s employees are expected to align with those in the oil and gas industry, “this does not imply PENGASSAN’s automatic recognition.”
The VC further disclosed that, despite the court’s clear ruling, PENGASSAN has filed a fresh suit, which is currently pending before the NIC, on same matter.
He urged all stakeholders to respect the judicial process and wait for the court’s final determination.
Reaffirming the institution’s commitment to lawful operations, Agbalagba stated: “FUPRE will continue to uphold the law and maintain good industrial relations, while ensuring that the university’s operations are guided strictly by statutory provisions.”
