The Nigeria Labour Congress has backed the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers following reports that military personnel were used to remove workers from the Oritsetimeyin oil rig.
NUPENG has threatened a nationwide strike if the government does not address the issue.
In a statement signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, on Friday, the NLC condemned the alleged actions and warned of escalating its response if security forces continue to interfere in labor matters.
“NLC stands in unequivocal solidarity with NUPENG in condemning the deployment of military and security operatives to forcefully evacuate NUPENG members from their work site on the Oritsetimeyin oil rig,” Ajaero stated.
Ajaero described the use of military personnel in this case “an abuse of state security instruments,” emphasizing that workplace disputes should not involve armed forces. He added, “The militarization of workplaces is counterproductive and could damage the nation’s economy further.”
According to NUPENG, the dispute began after the rig’s management—Dutchford E&P and Selective Marine Services—ignored agreements that included severance benefits for workers. These agreements were previously negotiated in the presence of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission and the Department of State Services.
Despite this, NUPENG claims that military personnel arrived on Thursday morning to remove the workers.
Ajaero stressed, “This is strictly an industrial relations issue and does not warrant the involvement of military personnel, who should be focused on national defense rather than enforcing corporate interests.”
Reaffirming the NLC’s support for NUPENG, Ajaero warned that the union “will not hesitate to escalate our response should these unacceptable actions continue.” He also praised the Nigerian military’s commitment to national security but reminded them that their role is “the defense of our country’s sovereignty and people, not the suppression of workers’ legitimate demands.”
