The National Industrial Court in Abuja has issued an interim order restraining the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) from embarking on its planned strike.The order, granted yesterday, followed an application by the Federal Government, which approached the court to halt the industrial action that threatened to disrupt oil and gas operations nationwide.In its ruling, the court directed PENGASSAN to suspend all strike-related activities pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit filed by the government.
It further ordered the union to maintain the status quo and continue negotiations in good faith.The government had argued that the planned strike would cause severe economic dislocation, affect energy supply, and endanger national security.
PENGASSAN had earlier threatened to withdraw services over unresolved disputes with authorities, including issues bordering on welfare and implementation of agreements.The case has been adjourned for further hearing, with the court stressing the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution of industrial disputes.