Sterling Global Petrochemical Company is treading Akwa Ibom dreaded footpath, following reports of maltreatment of its indigenous workers.
The company, a foreign oil prospecting firm operating within the state, operating in Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, and Eastern Obollo Local Government Areas, has been warned to address the allegations or face severe sanctions, including licence and land revocation.
The warning comes amidst accusations of the company’s insensitivity and resort to intimidation tactics, including the deployment of military personnel.
This was as Nigeria Labour Congress, Akwa Ibom Council had, on May 1, 2024, asked the Governor to investigate the activities of IOCs which are not labour friendly.
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Chief Assam Assam, SAN, the Director-General of Government Business issued a stern warning to the firm in response to allegations of flagrant disrespect and non-compliance with rules of engagement for workers.
Assam, who is also the Chairman of the Mediation Committee between the company and affected communities, emphasised the government’s commitment to upholding the rights of Akwa Ibom people and ensuring they are not relegated to second-class citizens in their own land.
He stressed the need for Sterling Global to adhere to globally accepted conditions of employment and urged them to learn from the labour-friendly disposition of Governor Umo Eno.
‘‘Failure to comply could result in the revocation of licences and land allocated to the company by the Akwa Ibom State Government, the church.’’
Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Mr Aniefiok Nkom, criticised Sterling Global for its irresponsibility and disregard for court orders, noting its failure to engage with the State Government to resolve ongoing issues.
”This omission raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the company’s operations, further exacerbating tensions between the firm and the Akwa Ibom State Government.
”The Akwa Ibom Government remains resolute in its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of its citizens, signaling a clear message to corporations operating within its jurisdiction: respect local laws and uphold the dignity of indigenous workers, or face the consequences.”
The Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Okon Okon, also accused the company of tax evasion, highlighting its failure to pay tenement tax and PAYE tax.
The Transition committee chairmen in the affected local government areas lauded the State Government for intervening in the matter, describing the situation as unbearable for indigenous communities.
In response, the Human Resource Manager of Sterling Global Ltd, Mr David Walker, presented a document outlining the company’s conditions of service but failed to provide a comprehensive list of staff, particularly expatriates.
