NLC requests intervention from FG in connection with the alleged forced eviction of workers on an oil rig

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

NLC President Joe Ajaero has said the use of the military on the Oritseyemi oil rig is a misuse of state instruments.
safety, as this is contrary to the dictate that workplaces must be free from all forms of coercion.

He said the disturbing action, allegedly 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 opposing the militarization of workplaces, Ajaero said it was counterproductive and highly capable of contaminating the country’s workplaces, which could lead to further paralysis and undermining an already troubled economy.

NUPENG had alleged that workers were victims of unlawful eviction due to their rightful demand for performance of agreements entered into and signed with their employers.

The agreement, according to NUPENG, included severance packages for employees, which was reached through multiple mediation meetings convened by the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in the presence of the Department of State Services (DSS).

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

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 focus on protecting the nation rather than being deployed as corporate agenda enforcers.

He said realizing the sensitive nature of the working world makes it necessary for the nation to create special processes for handling workplace-related matters, which are enshrined in the various statutes.

According to him, the basic tenets 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 country’s economy.

“We reiterate our continued support for NUPENG and will not hesitate to escalate our response if these unacceptable actions continue. The protection of
Workers’ rights and their safety remain our top priority, and we call on the country’s gatekeepers to immediately make their voices heard before the situation deteriorates.

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