The Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria (SEWUN) on Friday joined workers of WEMPCO Group of Companies in Magboro, Ogun State, to protest the alleged dismissal and displacement of more than 10,000 factory workers.
The protest, held at the company’s premises, was led by SEWUN National Treasurer, Comrade Alhaji Nasiru Bello, and the union’s Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Julius Ijebor, who called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene to prevent what they described as a looming social and economic crisis.
Addressing journalists during the demonstration, Bello said the union was deeply concerned about the fate of thousands of workers whose jobs and livelihoods were now uncertain following recent developments at the company.
According to him, WEMPCO has over the years maintained a strong record of meeting its obligations to workers, noting that many employees had spent between 20 and 30 years in the organisation.
“This company is not an idle company. Some of our members have worked here for over 30 years, while others have spent more than 20 years. Throughout this period, WEMPCO has never owed workers their salaries,” he said.
Bello alleged that armed security personnel invaded the factory premises last week and forced workers out while production activities were ongoing.
He said the union was not protesting on behalf of any individual or corporate interest but was demanding clarity on the future of workers and the protection of their rights.
“We are here to protest against injustice. We want to know the fate of workers in this organisation. Throwing over 10,000 people out of work will worsen unemployment and insecurity in the country,” he stated.
The union leader argued that at a time when employment opportunities are limited across all levels of government, private sector companies remain critical sources of jobs for Nigerian youths.
He also stressed that obtaining loan facilities from financial institutions should not be criminalised, adding that any dispute between the company and its financiers should be resolved through lawful and peaceful means without jeopardising workers’ welfare.
“If there is any misunderstanding between the management and any financial institution, there are legal channels to resolve it. Workers should not be made to suffer for issues beyond their control,” Bello said.
He expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding workers’ salaries, benefits and terminal entitlements, particularly for employees who have spent decades in service.
“We do not know whether salaries will be paid. We do not know what will happen to the entitlements of workers who have served this company for more than 35 years. These are legitimate concerns that must be addressed,” he added.
Bello further called on the Federal Government, relevant labour authorities and other stakeholders to intervene urgently to safeguard jobs and prevent further disruption to workers’ livelihoods.
He said the union would continue its peaceful protest until those responsible for the situation engage with workers and provide answers regarding their future.
“Our message is clear: workers are in danger, and the government must act to save their jobs. We will remain peaceful, but we will continue to demand answers until the rights and welfare of our members are protected,” he said.
The protesters carried placards and demanded immediate clarification on the status of affected workers, while urging authorities to ensure that any dispute involving the company is resolved without jeopardising the livelihoods of thousands of employees.
About The Author
