MWUN wins compensation claim for late seafarer against GMS recruitment services

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has announced the successful resolution of a prolonged compensation and welfare case involving the family of late Comrade Okwuwa Chinedu Godwin, a union member and employee of GMS Recruitment Services Limited, who died on March 18, 2024, following an illness reportedly contracted while serving aboard a vessel.

The Union said the breakthrough was achieved under the leadership of its President-General, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, who pursued the matter through sustained engagement and negotiations with the employer to ensure justice for the deceased worker and his family.

In an e-signed release by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna Head of Media MWUN revealed that though the incident occurred before the current administration assumed office, Bunu made the case a priority upon taking office, approaching it with determination and in line with extant labour laws and established maritime compensation procedures.

Wife and Children of the late Comrade Okwuwa Chinedu

MWUN stated that its intervention culminated in an amicable resolution after GMS Recruitment Services Limited accepted the Union’s demands in accordance with the applicable Protection and Indemnity (P&I) provisions governing the case.

Reacting to the development, Comrade Bunu commended the management of GMS Recruitment Services for its cooperation and willingness to resolve the matter peacefully.

He stressed that the welfare of maritime workers remains paramount to the Union, noting that every worker deserves dignity and protection, especially in cases involving injury, illness or death arising from the course of employment.

Comrade Bunu and representative of P&I

The President-General said the successful resolution reflects the Union’s renewed commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its members, regardless of when such cases arise.

The family of the late Comrade Godwin also expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria for its commitment, perseverance and the manner in which the matter was handled, describing the outcome as fair and reassuring.

MWUN reaffirmed that it would continue to champion the rights and welfare of maritime workers while engaging employers constructively to ensure prompt resolution of labour and welfare issues affecting its members.