NLC Threatens Showdown Over 89 Labourers at Dangote Refinery

Labour Union Alleges Violation of Employment Laws

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to both the Lagos State Government and Dangote Refinery regarding the alleged recruitment of 89 unskilled workers from Katsina State for the company’s $28 billion facility in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

Security Concerns and Labour Law Violations

The NLC’s Lagos State chapter has condemned the move, labeling it as both a breach of labour regulations and a potential security threat to the local community. The controversy emerged after a viral video showed the young men arriving at the refinery site.

Police Confirmation and Labour Dispute

While the Lagos State Police Command confirmed the legitimacy of the workers’ recruitment, NLC Lagos Chairperson Funmi Sessi maintains the action violates employment laws. “This is an aberration of labour rules which specify 70% local hiring,” Sessi stated.

NLC’s Demands and Potential Action

The labour leader has called for immediate intervention from Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Federal Ministry of Labour, threatening nationwide labour action if the workers aren’t returned to northern Nigeria where Dangote has other operations.

Dangote Refinery’s Response

The refinery management has distanced itself from direct involvement, stating the workers were brought by a vendor. “We’re investigating the matter,” a company spokesperson said, emphasizing the scale of their operations involves numerous contractors.

Full credit to the original publisher: The Citizen