Union decries firms’ anti-worker policies
National Union of Chemical, Footwear, Rubber, Leather and Non-Metallic Products Employees has decried ‘anti-worker practice’ by some Chinese-owned firms, alleging poor treatment of workers. President, Bolarinwa Sunday, said complaints about
National Union of Chemical, Footwear, Rubber, Leather and Non-Metallic Products Employees has decried ‘anti-worker practice’ by some Chinese-owned firms, alleging poor treatment of workers.
President, Bolarinwa Sunday, said complaints about treatment of Nigerian employees in some firms owned by Chinese nationals highlight the need for government attention to the issue.
He spoke when a team from IndustriaAll Global Union visited the secretariat at Sango in Ogun State.
Bolarinwa said the incidents, which include casualisation, denial of union access and other alleged violations of labour practice, underscore the need for authorities to ensure compliance with labour laws.
He noted that the situation is affecting the union and its members, saying they will address concerns by workers.
“Nigerians working in some Chinese-owned quarries have complained about poor conditions and ill treatment.
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“This situation is no longer acceptable and the union will take steps to address it. We cannot continue to fold our arms,” Bolarinwa said.
Assistant Secretary General of IndustriALL, Kemal Özkan, pledged support for the union in promoting a policy framework for manufacturing and for implementing its plans.
He said effective collective bargaining is key to securing improvements in working conditions for workers.
Vice President for Sub-Saharan Africa, Rose Omamo, said: “Our goal is to ensure trade union recognition based on free and fair elections, without interference or intimidation.”
She added that collaboration would drive improvements so workers in global supply chains can defend their rights.
Regional Secretary, Paule Ndessomin, said: “We’ll work with you. Your collective leverage is a valuable tool to drive respect for workers’ rights.”
