NLC seeks FG intervention on alleged forced evacuation of oil rig workers

The Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene to prevent further harassment and displacement of members of the Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers of Nigeria (NUPENG) from their workplace at the Oritsetimeyin oil platform by the military .

The NLC Chairman, Joe Ajaero, said the use of the military in the Oritseyemi oil platform was an abuse of the instruments of the state.
security, because it goes against the dictates that workplaces should be free from any form of coercion.

He said the disturbing action, which appears to be orchestrated by certain corporate interests, was a direct affront to the principles of democracy and industrial relations, which demand respect for workers’ rights and the sanctity of negotiated agreements.

While hitting out against the militarization of jobs, Ajaero said it is counterproductive and highly capable of contaminating the nation’s jobs, which could lead to further paralyzing and undermining an already troubled economy.

NUPENG claimed that the workers were subjected to illegal eviction because of their legitimate demand to implement the agreements concluded and signed with their employers.

The agreement, according to NUPENG, included severance pay for the workers, which was settled through several mediation meetings convened by the Nigerian Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in the presence of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The NLC boss said it was therefore alarming that Dutchford E&P, Selective Marine Services and their labor contractors chose to ignore legally binding agreements and instead opted for intimidation and coercion through the use of armed force.

While urging the federal government to intervene, Ajaero said the matter was strictly an industrial relations issue and did not warrant the involvement of military personnel, who should be focused on protecting the nation rather than being employed as law enforcement agents. corporate agendas.

He said realizing the sensitive nature of the world of work makes it imperative for the nation to create special processes for handling workplace issues that are codified in their various statutes.

According to him, the principles of the existing industrial relations statutes must be fully expressed by all parties to avoid creating a situation of anomie that will further damage the nation’s economy.

“We reiterate our unwavering support for NUPENG and will not hesitate to step up our response if these unacceptable actions continue. Protection from
workers’ rights and their safety remain our top priority and we call on the nation’s watchdogs to speak up immediately before the situation degenerates.

“The Nigerian Labor Congress recognizes the dedication and sacrifices of the Nigerian military and security agencies in protecting our nation. However, we remind them that their mandate is to defend the sovereignty and people of our country, not to suppress the legitimate demands of workers,” he said.