MTN Denounces NLC’s Fierce Protest

Mary Nnah

MTN has denounced the Nigeria Labour Congress’ (NLC) fierce picketing of the global telecommunication company’s offices nationwide last Monday. NLC had in a fierce protest picketed the telecoms company over what it described as ‘unfriendly labour practice’. Describing such actions as ‘needless destruction of property’, the company’ accused NLC of destroying its properties and injuring some of its workers who were attacked during the violent protest. The picketing was recorded in Abia, Kano, Kogi, Bayelsa, Oyo and Bauchi, among other states.

The company’s Corporate Relations Executive, Tobechukwu Okigbo, said in a statement that the violent protest was needless and saddening as the company does not prevent MTN’s employees from associating amongst themselves as they deem fit.

“As always our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our employees, some of whom were attacked by supposed NLC operatives and have sustained injuries.

“We do not prevent our employees from associating amongst themselves as they deem fit but owe our employees the obligation to ensure they are not compelled to join associations. MTN supports the freedom of association as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution but all workers have rights that should be protected. We work hard to not only ensure that this is done but also to ensure that our company is a great place to work. We will continue to champion our peoples’ rights, whether they are part of a union or not and work hard to minimise disruptions in service to our customers.”