- The union also said that it was on record that these companies were always violating signed agreements reached with various parties.
- It said that this included the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on payments and other entitlements due to their workers dating back to 2022.
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has accused Dutchford E&P, Selective Marine Services, and its labor contractors of using military personnel to assault its members.
This accusation was made in a statement signed by Festus Osifo, PENGASSAN’s president, and Lumumba Okugbawa, the association’s general secretary. The union strongly condemned the excessive and brutal use of force by military and security agencies.
“They are hired by Dutchford E&P, Selective Marine Services and its Labour Contractors against oil and gas workers at the Oritsetimeyin Oil and Gas Rig,” PENGASSAN said. The union views this act as a violation of the Nigerian Constitution and laws governing the oil and gas sector.
PENGASSAN alleged that these companies have a history of breaching agreements, including overdue payments and entitlements owed to workers since 2022.
The union warned that if oil and gas workers are violently ejected from the rig, PENGASSAN will take all necessary measures to prevent such actions.
“This unconscionable act represents a grave violation of human rights and known labour conventions,” the union stated. “The use of military actions against unarmed workers is completely unjustifiable and disproportionate.”
PENGASSAN demanded an immediate investigation, arrest, and prosecution of those responsible for the assault.
The union stressed that perpetrators must be held accountable under national and international law.
“Furthermore, we demand a guarantee of the safety and security of all oil and gas workers on the Rigs,” PENGASSAN added.
The association called on authorities to protect workers’ rights and engage in peaceful conflict resolution methods.