NLC stings pension firm over unfair labor practices

The Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) yesterday stormed and locked down the Trust Fund Pensions premises in Abuja to take a stand against what it described as unfair labor practices by the company.

The employment center accused the fund of dismissing more than 45 workers without due process, in violation of labor laws.

Deputy General Secretary for Recruitment and Industrial Relations, Comrade Chris Uyot, who spoke to journalists at the event, highlighted long-standing grievances relating to workers’ rights, management conduct and anti-union activities over the years.

Uyot said despite the union’s attempts to engage with management, their concerns remained unaddressed, especially the recent dismissal of over 45 workers without due process which raised serious concerns within the NLC.

The union argued that the laws of the land apply equally to all, including Trust Fund pensions, and that unfair actions must be rectified.

Similarly, NLC Deputy General Secretary Comrade Ismail Bello highlighted during the protest that the employment practices of pension trust funds are unacceptable, saying many workers, especially at the junior level (including cleaning and security workers), earn less than the minimum wage of N30. 000.

Bello further criticized the lack of dialogue between management and the union, insisting that layoffs require consultation with workers or their representatives.

He said the picketing action was aimed at holding the company accountable.

“We are not just here in the same building, the unions are investing in it and everyone associated with the unions must meet basic standards,” Bello said.

The NLC, in partnership with the National Union of Banking, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE), called on the Pension Trust Fund to recognize the importance of fair labor practices and engage in meaningful dialogue, stressing that injustice will not be tolerated.

An attempt to obtain comment from Pension Trust Fund management staff was unsuccessful as none were on the ground during the protest.