‘He Chickened Out’ – Reuben Abati Slams PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo Over Dangote Refinery Dispute

By Francis Ugwu | October 7, 2025

Veteran journalist and broadcaster Dr. Reuben Abati has launched a blistering criticism against Festus Osifo, President of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), accusing him of avoiding accountability amid the ongoing standoff between the union and the Dangote Refinery.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, Abati said Osifo “chickened out” after failing to appear on the programme to address questions about PENGASSAN’s role in the recent crisis that led to the refinery’s temporary shutdown.

Abati: Osifo Dodged Public Accountability

Abati referenced comments made by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) meeting, where Shettima hailed Aliko Dangote as a patriot and described the $20 billion Dangote Refinery as a major job creator and national asset.

He also cited NNPCL CEO Bayo Ojulari, who alleged that Nigeria lost about 600,000 barrels of crude oil due to the actions of PENGASSAN under Osifo’s leadership.

“Festus Osifo was supposed to come on this programme yesterday. We would have asked him critical questions, but he chickened out,” Abati said. “He should have come here to explain his union’s role in the alleged sabotage that cost Nigeria dearly.”

‘Labour Leaders Lack Integrity’

Abati accused some labour leaders of prioritising personal interests over workers’ welfare, saying union leadership in Nigeria has lost its moral credibility.

“We have labour leaders who are there for personal gains. They talk tough in public but seek favours from the same people they criticise at night,” he stated.
“Labour unionism should not be about nocturnal opportunism—it should be about genuine defence of workers’ rights.”

He further recalled that even Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former labour leader, had publicly criticised the current crop of union executives for deviating from the ideals of true labour advocacy.

Abati concluded by urging Festus Osifo to appear on the programme to clarify his position and respond to the allegations against PENGASSAN.