NLC Warns Dangote Refinery Over Recruitment of 89 Labourers from Katsina, Demands Immediate Repatriation
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong warning to the Lagos State Government and Dangote Refinery over the arrival of 89 unskilled labourers from Katsina State, demanding their immediate return and describing the situation as both a violation of labour regulations and a potential security threat.
The controversy stems from a viral video that surfaced earlier this week, showing dozens of young men loitering outside the Dangote Refinery in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos. In response to public concern, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed on Friday that the individuals were indeed brought in from Katsina State for labour purposes.
Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin stated that following swift deployment to the site on May 14, officers established that the men were recruited by a contractor affiliated with the refinery, who claimed they were relocated for legitimate employment.
However, the Lagos State chapter of the NLC has condemned the development. Speaking with Daily Trust, Comrade Funmi Sessi, chairperson of the NLC in Lagos, strongly criticized the move, arguing that it contravenes local employment laws and undermines the rights of job-seekers in the host community.
“My position is that what the Dangote Refinery did is very wrong,” Sessi stated. “Labour regulations stipulate that at least 70 percent of job opportunities especially low-skilled roles should be given to local residents. Importing 89 unskilled workers from another region, while many in the host community remain unemployed, is both insensitive and unlawful.”
She further questioned the rationale behind the decision: “What special skills do these men possess that local youths don’t? This is not just about employment it’s about equity, security, and the future of our communities.”
Sessi also alleged that this is not the first time Dangote has sidestepped local labour expectations. “He is known for bringing in expatriates even for roles our people can handle. We are drawing the line here.”
Calling for government intervention, she urged Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Federal Ministry of Labour to act decisively. “These workers must be returned to the northern region. If Dangote fails to comply, we will escalate this matter to the NLC national leadership.”
The union is not ruling out protests or a full-blown showdown if their demands are not met.
In response, the Dangote Refinery claimed it was unaware of the mass recruitment, attributing the development to an independent vendor. “We did not know anything about them. They were brought in by one of our vendors,” said a spokesperson in a text message to the press. “As you know, for a project of this size, we work with many vendors. We are currently investigating the matter.”
As tensions rise, all eyes are on Dangote Group and the Lagos State Government to address the labour concerns and prevent further escalation.
Reference