LAGOS, Nigeria — The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) on Tuesday distanced itself from media reports alleging that the union had accused TotalEnergies Nigeria Limited of racism and the maltreatment of local employees.
In a statement issued by its National Secretariat, the association denied claims published in a recent ThisDay newspaper report. The publication suggested that PENGASSAN had flagged TotalEnergies for harassment of Nigerian staff by expatriates and violations of the Nigerian Local Content Act.
The union characterized the report as being based on an unauthorized leak of internal documents and categorically denied issuing any formal grievance against the oil major to the press.
“The National Leadership of PENGASSAN categorically states that it has neither issued any statement on this matter nor provided any document to the media,” the association said. “The cited publication referenced an internal document between staff and their management without authorization, constituting a breach of privacy and confidentiality which the Association strongly condemns.”
The union further clarified that it has no affiliation with the “MIND group,” an entity mentioned in connection with the allegations.
PENGASSAN, which represents senior management and staff in Nigeria’s vital oil and gas sector, warned that the use of its name to bolster “unverified allegations” could create unnecessary workplace tension and damage the reputation of the industry.
While the association maintains its mandate to protect the welfare of its members, it emphasized that it remains committed to “dialogue and constructive engagement” rather than sensationalism.
“We will not condone sensationalism or unverified claims that may undermine the stability of the sector,” the statement read.
The association said it is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the leak of the internal documents and plans to take “appropriate actions” against those responsible. It urged stakeholders and the public to disregard any statements regarding the matter that do not originate directly from its National Secretariat.
