Operations at the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) $10 billion Train 7 Project in Bonny, Rivers State, have been brought to a standstill by a protest led by welders, fitters, and junior staff over tax-related grievances.
The protesting workers accused their employer, SCD JV — a consortium of Saipem, Chiyoda, and Daewoo — of illegally deducting ₦150,000 monthly from their salaries over the past two years for tax purposes without issuing them Tax Identification Numbers (TIN) or official tax receipts.
The protest began last Thursday and extended into the weekend, with workers occupying the company’s administrative building and vowing not to leave until their demands are met. They argue that despite the hefty deductions, there’s no evidence that the funds were remitted to the government.
Daily Trust gathered that these deductions were purportedly for tax clearance, yet workers said they have been denied both transparency and documentation. They claim an internal audit revealed the funds were not properly accounted for.
A worker speaking anonymously expressed frustration, noting that after helping bring the project to 90% completion, they are now being short-changed. “We have fulfilled our duties, yet we’re treated as though we don’t matter,” he said.
The President of the National Association of Plant Operators (NAPO), Harold Benstowe, has urged anti-graft agencies and security agencies not to interfere or intimidate the workers, warning that any such actions could result in legal action against the authorities.
NAPO, which represents a large portion of the workforce on the Train 7 project, emphasized that workers only want their rightful documentation and refund of the deductions taken over the last 24 months.
As of the time of reporting, NLNG’s Corporate Communications official, Mr. Emma Nwatu, had not responded to multiple messages requesting the company’s side of the story.