The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong warning to both the Lagos State Government and the Dangote Refinery regarding the recruitment of 89 unskilled labourers from Katsina State for work at the refinery’s facility in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. The NLC claims that this action violates labour laws and poses a potential security risk to the local community.
The NLC’s Lagos State chapter has condemned the recruitment of these labourers, asserting that it undermines local employment opportunities. According to NLC chairperson Comrade Funmi Sessi, labour regulations stipulate that 70% of workers should be sourced locally, while only 30% can be from outside the area. She questioned the skills of the recruited individuals compared to local unemployed youths, suggesting that this practice is an “aberration.”
Sessi expressed concerns that the presence of these workers could lead to security issues in Lagos State. She called on the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Federal Ministry of Labour to intervene and ensure that the workers are returned to their home state to prevent a potential labour crisis.
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for the Dangote Refinery stated that they were unaware of the recruitment and that the workers were brought in by one of their vendors. The refinery is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the situation.
The arrival of the labourers was captured in a viral video, which raised public concern and led to police involvement. However, the Lagos State police have reassured the public that the workers were legitimately recruited.
The NLC has indicated that if the situation is not resolved, they may escalate their actions to a national level, emphasizing their commitment to protecting local employment rights and ensuring compliance with labour laws.
