TUC Backs PENGASSAN, Demands Public Apology, Recall of sacked workers
By: Editor
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has condemned what it describes as anti-worker actions by the management of Dangote refinery and petrochemicals, including the “unjust termination of workers for exercising their constitutional right to freedom of association and unionisation.”
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the position of the union was made public via a statement on Sunday signed by its Secretary General, Nuhu Toro, TUC as it expressly demands the oil company to reinstate the 800 workers that it allegedly sacked.
It warned that failure to recall the sacked workers, and a public apology could lead to industrial action.
The statement said, “We stand in full solidarity with the affected workers and with their union, our affiliate PENGASSAN, whose members have been victimized merely for declaring membership.
“Such actions amount to a direct assault on Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution and on Nigeria’s obligations under International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.
“We demand immediate and unconditional reinstatement of all affected workers; a public apology from Dangote management with firm assurances against future victimization.
“An independent investigation involving the Ministry of Labour, ILO, and stakeholders into the refinery’s labour practices.”
It added, “Congress hereby places all affiliates on stand-by for a national industrial action if Dangote management fails to comply with these demands within a reasonable time.
“No corporation, regardless of size or wealth, will be allowed to trample on the dignity and rights of Nigerian workers. The TUC stands united and ready to act decisively in defense of our members and the Nigerian workforce.”
OTN News observes that this development marks one of the significant fall outs of the decisions taken by Dangote Refinery in recent times amid other chains of reactions.
What's Your Reaction?
