“Akwa Ibom Government Warns Sterling Global Petrochemical Company Over Alleged Maltreatment of Indigenous Workers”
The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a stern warning to Sterling Global Petrochemical Company, a foreign oil prospecting firm operating in the state, over reported cases of maltreatment of indigenous workers. The warning came after allegations of flagrant disrespect and non-compliance with rules of engagement by the company.
Chief Assam Assam, SAN, the Director General of Government Business and chairman of the mediation committee between the oil firm and the affected communities, issued the warning. He mandated the company to present the status of all workers, including expatriates, or face license and land revocation.
Assam condemned the alleged insensitivity of the firm and warned against any engagement of Akwa Ibom workers without fulfilling globally accepted conditions of employment. He emphasized that the government will not accept any act that reduces Akwa Ibom people to second-class citizens.
The Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Mr Aniefiok Nkom, criticized Sterling Global for its irresponsibility in operations and disregard for court orders. He noted the company’s failure to pay tenement tax and PAYE tax to the State Government, alleging deliberate tax evasion.
Transition committee chairmen for affected local government areas commended the government for intervening in the situation, which they described as unbearable and lethal for their people.
During the meeting, Sterling Global’s Human Resource Manager, Mr David Walker, was asked to present the list of staff, but he claimed not to have it. However, he mentioned that 3,710 people are working on the company’s projects. Walker also presented the company’s conditions of service, which he clarified were only for nationals and did not include expatriates.
The Akwa Ibom State Government’s warning underscores its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens and ensuring that companies operating within its jurisdiction adhere to established laws and regulations.