News
NUPENG decry forceful ejection of workers
Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has condemned alleged attempt by the military and other security forces to forcefully remove workers from Oritsetimeyin Rig.
The oil body, in a statement, claimed these union members face eviction because they demanded implementation of a previously agreed contract.
In the statemtment signed by NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, the union called on the Federal Government, National Security Adviser, Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and Department of State Services (DSS) to address the “illegal and forceful eviction.”
The union noted that Dutchford E&P, Selective Marine Services, and their contractors, operators of Oritsetimeyin Rig, allegedly defy Nigerian laws by refusing to honour agreements with workers.
These companies reportedly disregard workers’ rights and scoff at regulatory directives, according to the statement.
Meetings by NUPRC with representatives from Dutchford E&P and Selective Marine Services, as well as members of DSS, have been on since July.
The companies agreed to settle severance package by October 7, an agreement NUPENG alleged has not been upheld.
“It is sad that in a democracy, employers and some state collaborators will use force to settle industrial disputes.
“Dutchford E&P, Selective Marine Services and its Labour Contractors who are the operators of the Oritsetimeyin Rig, believe they are above the laws and directives of regulatory authorities in Nigeria.
“It should be noted that these companies have penchant for running away with workers terminal benefits and we have written earlier on their unscrupulous antics to the office of National Security Adviser and Department of State Security on this and warned that these companies are reaping of Nigerian workers,” the statement read.
By Francesca Hangeior
The team of lawyers representing Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye, an Abuja based bolt driver that was allegedly assaulted by a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, have withdrawn from his case.
The withdrawal, came barely 24 hours after the driver made a volte farce by tendering an apology to his alleged assaulter who had since been docked in court by the police over his action.
Hon. Ikwechegh was arraigned after he had admitted that he manhandled the e-hailing cab driver and apologized for his unbecoming conduct.
However, in view of the recent turn of events in the matter, Abuwatseye’s lawyers said they were no longer ready to offer legal services to him.
A statement dated November 8, signed by Zainab M. Otega of Deji Adeyanju & Partners and titled: “PUBLIC STATEMENT ON THE ALLEGED ASSAULT OF MR. STEPHEN ABUWATSEYE: WITHDRAWAL OF LEGAL REPRESENTATION,” read:
“We wish to formally announce the withdrawal of our legal representation in the case involving the alleged assault of Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye.
“On October 28, 2024, Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye walked into our law firm, visibly distressed, and sought redress over an alleged assault. Following his complaint, and having verified his claim, we took steps to protect Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye’s rights, on pro bono basis, culminating in the arraignment of the alleged assaulter.
“However, in view of recent developments and after careful consideration, we have made the decision to withdraw our legal representation in other to protect our professional integrity and maintain the highest ethical standard in the legal profession.
“We wish Mr. Stephen Abuwatseye the very best, while we assure the general public of our continuous commitment towards protecting the rights of the oppressed and indigent members of the society.”
The popular Olaiya Bridge in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, has been closed temporarily.
According to reports, this closure is to allow for the installation of barriers at the bridge’s entrance to prevent heavy trucks from using the bridge.
Inside Osogbo shared the updates on social media, urging motorists and other road users to exercise patience along the axis.
The blog wrote: “ATTENTION: The popular Ọlà-Ìyá Bridge is currently closed to give way for the installation of barriers at the entrance of the bridge to disallow heavy duty trucks from using the bridge. Motorists and other road users are enjoined to exercise patience along this axis.Kindly rebroadcast
The Olaiya Bridge was constructed by the administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.
Recently, the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Osun accused the state government of planning to demolish the iconic flyover bridge.
However, Governor Ademola Adeleke has denied these allegations and banned heavy-duty trucks from plying the flyover.
May Edochie’s fans respond to actress Uche Ogbodo after she criticized them
Alleged Assault: Lawyers dump bolt driver for apologizing to Abia Reps member
Olaiya Flyover Bridge In Osun Closed Temporarily
Just in: Terrorists ambush military truck, kill all soldiers on board
Nigerian Dancer, Korra Obidi Attacked with acid, stabbed on stage In UK
Meet Rare Gem 16 Years Old Chiaza, CEO of ‘RUN MARKET PLACE’
-
News23 hours agoMalaysia Govt moves to phase out CNG-powered vehicles due to safety concerns
-
Entertainment11 hours agoIf you don’t shift, I will hammer you ma, Portable cautions Tiwa Savage
-
Foreign10 hours agoElon Musk’s transgender daughter announces plans to leave US after Trump’s victory
-
News23 hours ago“Okpebholo, BEWARE of the errors of Obaseki!”*- renowned Prophet warns incoming Governor!
-
Sports11 hours agoOsimhen scores two goals to drown Spurs to go top in Europa league
-
News23 hours agoPresident Tinubu Endorses New Appointment
-
News7 hours agoNigeria Seeks Permanent Spot on UN Security Council
-
Metro11 hours agoPolice arrest man who faked own abduction and demanded N10m ransom from sibling