EXXON Mobil crisis deepens as workers threaten shut down

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has issued a stern threat to extend the withdrawal of its members from various international oil companies until the federal government intervenes to address their grievances. Emmanuel Ojugbana, the spokesman for PENGASSAN, provided an update on the escalating crisis that has put Exxon Mobil in the spotlight. The union's ultimatum to pull out its members by midnight today reveals the deepening rift between labor and management in the oil industry. Ojugbana shed light on the lack of progress in negotiations between PENGASSAN and Exxon Mobil, indicating that talks have reached a standstill. Despite efforts to engage with the management of Exxon Mobil, the union is adamant about the need for government intervention. The Minister of Labor and the Minister of Petroleum are aware of the situation, with previous discussions failing to yield concrete solutions. The root of the conflict traces back to the termination of 150 PENGASSAN members by Exxon Mobil, a move deemed a violation of the Nigeria Local Content Act. Ojugbana emphasized that while agreements have been made in the past, Exxon Mobil has failed to uphold its end of the bargain, prompting the current strike action. The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources has been involved in the discussions but has been unable to ensure compliance from Exxon Mobil. The union's decision to withdraw its members from other international oil companies is a strategic move to demonstrate solidarity and pressure the management of Exxon Mobil and the government to address the concerns promptly. With the looming deadline approaching, the standoff between PENGASSAN and Exxon Mobil highlights the challenges faced by workers in the oil and gas sector, underscoring the importance of effective dialogue and resolution of labor disputes to maintain industry stability.