The National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers and Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association have been restrained from taking any step or industrial action to shut down or disrupt production activities at the Dangote Refinery.

The restraining order was issued by Justice E.D. Subilim of the National Industrial Court in Abuja, following an ex-parte motion brought by Dangote Petroleum Refinery, MRS Oil Nigeria Limited, and MRS Oil and Gas Company Limited.

The court granted the request, restraining NUPENG and its members and agents from embarking on any form of strike action until the issues in dispute are resolved.

The judge also stopped Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association and its members from joining or participating in any industrial action orchestrated by NUPENG against the three applicants with a view to frustrating their businesses.

Specifically, the Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association and its members are to continue rendering their services to the applicants until all issues are resolved. Justice Subilim held that she was mindful of issuing the restraining order, which shall last for seven days, because there is a serious issue to be tried.

“The balance of convenience tilted in favour of the three applicants because irreparable damage may be occasioned if the orders are not granted,” the judge said.

The applicants had prayed the court for an order of interim injunction restraining NUPENG, its members, agents, or privies from embarking on any industrial action aimed at crippling, shutting down its operations, or frustrating its business activities pending the determination of its motion on notice.

They also sought another order stopping Direct Trucking Company Drivers Association, its members, agents, and privies from joining any strike orchestrated by NUPENG against it with a view to frustrating its business.