Habib Engineering workers begin strike over unpaid entitlements in Kebbi

Workers of Habib Engineering Nigeria Ltd. in Kebbi have commenced a 14-day warning strike over alleged failure by the company to pay their contractual entitlements, including end-of-project bonuses.

The strike followed the completion of some road construction projects executed by the company in the state, with the workers accusing its management of neglecting their welfare and other contractual obligations.

Mr Olufemi Kolawole, Secretary of the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers (NUCECFWW) in charge of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states, said the workers were entitled to contract-finishing bonuses upon completion of projects.

Kolawole said the company had completed the Koko-Dabai road project without paying the workers their end-of-contract bonuses.

He also alleged that the company had failed to provide pension contributions, gratuities and other welfare benefits to its workers.

" The workers are treated like slaves despite their contributions to the company's projects.

" Although they are employed on contract, they are entitled to certain benefits and privileges, including burial assistance and other welfare provisions.

" We have almost 100 workers affected by these conditions, and we can no longer tolerate the situation," he said.

Kolawole said the union had formally issued a 14-day warning strike notice to the company, adding that the ultimatum would expire on Nov. 14.

He said the strike was intended to compel the company to address the workers' grievances and settle their outstanding entitlements.

" Once a worker leaves the company, he goes away with nothing. This is unacceptable, considering the years of service and contributions made by the workers," he said.

Similarly, a worker, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the company had failed to pay project completion bonuses despite the successful execution of several road projects.

He specifically cited the dualisation of Jega Road, saying the workers had yet to receive their bonuses after completing the project.

" The workers have resolved not to return to work until the outstanding bonuses are paid.

" There are also now new projects at Anguwar Jeji, Police Station and other locations in Birnin Kebbi, and the workers have decided not to undertake any further assignments until their entitlements are settled," he said.

When contacted for the company's reaction, its Public Relations Officer, Mr Haruna Galadima, who is responsible for responding to management-related enquiries, declined to comment on the workers' grievances.

" Who gave you my number? Go back to those who gave you my number to explain why the workers are on strike. I have nothing to say to you," he said.