Labour face-off brews as MWUN moves to enforce unionisation at Temile Company

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Tension is mounting in the maritime labour sector as the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), in collaboration with the Nigerian Merchant Navy Officers and Water Transport Senior Staff Association (NMNO-WTSSA), have issued a 21-day ultimatum to Temile Development Company Nigeria Limited over its alleged refusal to allow workers unionise.

The unions said the Port Harcourt-based company has consistently ignored multiple requests for the formal unionisation of its workforce, raising concerns about workers’ rights and compliance with labour laws.

In a statement issued by the Head of Media of MWUN, Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, the union disclosed that several letters had been sent to the company on May 26, September 16, and October 2025, as well as April 1, 2026, all requesting engagement on the matter.

According to the union, the company has failed to respond to any of the communications, a development it described as a deliberate attempt to frustrate the unionisation process.

Bunu

The President-General of MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, warned that the unions are determined to ensure that workers within the company are unionised in line with established labour laws.

“No company in Nigeria or anywhere in the world is bigger than labour unions and the laws guiding them, especially when it concerns the protection of workers’ rights,” he said.

He stressed that modern labour practices no longer tolerate exploitative conditions, particularly the casualisation of workers.

“Casualisation is outdated and unacceptable. Any employer still engaging in such practices under the guise of providing employment will be dealt with accordingly,” Bunu stated.

Ultimatum Issued

MWUN has now demanded that Temile Development Company respond to its correspondence and agree to a joint meeting with the unions within 21 days.

“The management of Temile Development Company must respond to our letters and fix a date for engagement within 21 days of this notice, or face the full weight of union action,” the statement read.

Labour Tensions Rise

Industry observers say the dispute could escalate into industrial action if not resolved within the stipulated timeframe, potentially affecting operations linked to the company.

The unions maintain that their demand is rooted in protecting workers’ rights, ensuring fair labour practices, and aligning with national and international standards governing employment in the maritime sector.

As the deadline approaches, attention will be on how the company responds to the ultimatum and whether dialogue can avert a full-blown labour confrontation.