By Victor Ahiuma-Young

More than 10,000 workers of WEMPCO Group of Companies are facing an uncertain future following their alleged displacement from the company’s factory in Magboro, Ogun State, a development that sparked a protest by the Steel and Engineering Workers’ Union of Nigeria, SEWUN.

Displaying several placards with various inscriptions, they chanted solidarity songs, and demanded immediate clarification on the status of affected employees.

They equally called on authorities concerned to ensure that any dispute involving the company is resolved without sacrificing the livelihoods of thousands of workers.

SEWUN, which described the situation as a looming social and economic crisis, called on the Federal Government and relevant authorities to urgently intervene to safeguard jobs and protect the welfare of affected workers.

Led by SEWUN National Treasurer, Nasiru Bello, and Deputy General Secretary, Julius Ijebor, the protesters gathered at the company’s premises, demanding clarity on the employment status of thousands of workers and the fate of long-serving employees whose salaries, benefits and terminal entitlements now hang in the balance.

Speaking, Bello expressed deep concern over the fate of thousands of employees whose livelihoods have been thrown into uncertainty following recent developments at the company.

According to him, WEMPCO has maintained a strong record of fulfilling its obligations to workers over the years, with many employees dedicating between 20 and 30 years of service to 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,” Bello said.
The union leader alleged that armed security personnel invaded the factory premises last week and forced workers out while production activities were still ongoing, a development that sparked fears over the future of the workforce.

Bello insisted that the protest was not driven by any individual or corporate interest but was aimed at seeking clarity on the status of workers and safeguarding 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.

He noted that at a time when employment opportunities remain scarce, private sector organisations such as WEMPCO play a vital role in providing jobs for Nigerian youths and sustaining thousands of families.

The union also urged stakeholders to ensure that any dispute involving the company and its financiers is 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 further raised concerns over the uncertainty surrounding workers’ salaries, benefits and terminal entitlements, particularly for long-serving employees who have spent decades with the company.
“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.

SEWUN called on the Federal Government, labour authorities and other relevant stakeholders to intervene urgently to safeguard jobs and prevent further disruption to workers’ livelihoods.

The union vowed to continue its peaceful protest until workers receive clear information about their future and adequate measures are put in place to protect their rights and welfare.