The Vice‑Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE), Professor Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, has addressed allegations made by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), clarifying that the university’s actions are in line with existing laws and court judgments.
According to Professor Agbalagba, PENGASSAN’s claims of intimidation and unilateral decisions by the university management are “unfounded.” He explained that a 2022 judgment of the National Industrial Court had already ruled that PENGASSAN is not entitled to unionize senior staff at FUPRE.
Citing the provisions of the Trade Unions Act, Agbalagba noted that while conditions of service for the university’s employees are expected to align with those in the oil and gas industry, “this does not imply PENGASSAN’s automatic recognition.”
The Vice‑Chancellor further disclosed that, despite the court’s clear ruling, PENGASSAN has filed a fresh suit, which is currently pending before the National Industrial Court. He urged all stakeholders to respect the judicial process and wait for the court’s final determination.
Reaffirming the institution’s commitment to lawful operations, Agbalagba stated:
“FUPRE will continue to uphold the law and maintain good industrial relations, while ensuring that the university’s operations are guided strictly by statutory provisions.”
