Sequel to the internal security outsourcing to a foreign firm,the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (WMUN) has declared seven days ultimatum for AP Moller Terminal (APMT) , Apapa to reverse all anti labour activities or risk being shut down by workers.
In a letter sent to APMT and a copy sighted by out correspondent, Secretary General of the union, Comrade Felix Akingboye said the recent practices in the organisation were at variance with labour laws of the land.
The letter also stated that the activities of the terminal operators and sister organization, Maersk Line was also inimical to the welfare of the workers.
According to the letter, the organisation is contracting out the security of the terminal to a South African company effective from March 18, 2021.
The union argued that the action contravenes clause 3 of an existing agreement with the union.
The union explained further that the development started last year when APMT allegedly refused to replace any staff of the security department that either resigned or retired.
MWUN said outsourcing security of the port which serves as gateway into the country was dangerous and would not be condoned especially because of the insecurity in the land.
“Your employment of foreign expatriates to do that job which our members have been performing creditably is also in contravention of clause 6 of the said agreement with the union.
“Further reports are abound of your management’s indifference to workers’ welfare.
“Arising from the above, I have been directed to issue your management a 7 day notice effective from the date of this letter within which to reverse all anti workers activities being embarked upon by your management,” the letter read.
It was gathered that Maersk Line has also commenced similar activities as the security department is gradually fizzling out.
A top security official (name withheld ) who spoke to our correspondent on Wednesday, explained that ” There is only one security personnel in that unit as we speak. The multinational has also engaged foreigners to carry out our functions.
He said between 2020 and 2021 , a total of eleven workers have left the said department either by resignation or retirement but the shipping company has failed to make meaningful replacement.
” Security job is meant for Nigerians and not foreigners, before they are twelve persons in that department but as we speak only one person is available there.
“Management claimed that they outsource the security department but there is only one person that is remaining in that unit.”
By Roland Ekama
