FUPRE Reaffirms Commitment to Rule of Law, Clarifies Union Recognition Dispute with PENGASSAN, NUPENG

From Francis Sadhere, Delta

In a strong display of institutional transparency and adherence to due process, the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), has reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law regarding the ongoing union representation issue involving the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

Addressing the press at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Warri the Vice-Chancellor of FUPRE, Professor Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, clarified the University’s position on the matter, emphasizing that all decisions taken were in strict compliance with legal precedents and statutory regulations.

According to him, FUPRE is not opposed to unionism but is bound to operate within the legal framework governing tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

He recalled that in 2021, PENGASSAN had approached the National Industrial Court seeking the right to unionize senior staff at FUPRE, citing Section 11 of the FUPRE Establishment Act, 2017, which aligns staff conditions of service with those in the oil and gas sector.

However, in a landmark ruling delivered on March 30, 2022, Hon. Justice B.B. Kanyip ruled that the Trade Unions Act—not the Conditions of Service—governs union recognition in universities.

The court further affirmed that the Federal Ministry of Education and the National Universities Commission (NUC) retain oversight of the university, not the Ministry of Petroleum.

Professor Agbalagba stated that this ruling forms the basis for the University’s decision not to recognize PENGASSAN and NUPENG as staff unions, a position that has been upheld by the FUPRE Governing Council in subsequent meetings.

The University has since engaged with union representatives and communicated the legal implications of the judgment to ensure understanding and cooperation.

Despite the pending legal appeal filed by PENGASSAN at the National Industrial Court in Asaba (Suit No. NICN/ASB/38/2024), the Vice-Chancellor assured that FUPRE would continue to uphold the 2022 court judgment and follow all judicial processes respectfully and responsibly.

“This is not a fight against any union,” Professor Agbalagba emphasized. “It is a commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring industrial harmony, and respecting the structures that govern tertiary institutions in Nigeria.”

He also highlighted the University’s willingness to work with all stakeholders—including labor unions—in ways that align with national laws and institutional frameworks. “We are open to dialogue, engagement, and collaboration, provided they follow due process and respect legal boundaries,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor used the opportunity to urge the media to support FUPRE’s development agenda by promoting responsible reporting that emphasizes solutions, progress, and institutional achievements.

He called for “development journalism” that highlights the innovative work being done at FUPRE in petroleum education, renewable energy, local content research, and workforce development.

FUPRE, Africa’s first and only petroleum-focused university, is fast emerging as a hub of research excellence and a key player in Nigeria’s quest for energy independence and industrial diversification.

With new degree programs, strategic planning initiatives, and renewed calls for government support, the institution is positioning itself to meet the demands of a changing energy landscape.

As the legal matter continues in court, Professor Agbalagba expressed confidence in the judicial system and called on all parties, including PENGASSAN and NUPENG, to respect the process.

“Institutional strength is not just about buildings and programs; it’s about integrity, fairness, and respect for the law,” he said. “That is what FUPRE stands for.”

The next court hearing is scheduled for November 20, 2025, at the National Industrial Court, Asaba Division.