The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has mourned the deaths of the victims involved in the Rivers helicopter crash, News About Nigeria reports.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, expressed the sadness of the Congress over the tragic event in a statement on Saturday.
Recall that the tragic incident claimed the lives of eight dedicated Nigerian workers on duty, while on their way to FPSO NUIM ANTAN off the coast of Calabar from Port Harcourt on the 24th of October 2024.
According to Ajaero, this heartbreaking loss of life underlines the difficult conditions workers often face.
He stated that the accident underscores the urgent and absolute necessity of prioritising workers’ health and safety and ensuring that Nigerian workers in any sector do not risk their lives each day to contribute to national progress.
He further maintained that this tragedy also heightens our concerns about the lax enforcement of safety standards, especially in high-risk sectors such as the offshore oil and gas industry, where the stakes are exceptionally high.
Ajaero emphasised that only with stringent compliance measures, comprehensive safeguards, and a commitment from employers and regulators alike can we truly protect the lives of those who operate in such complex and dangerous environments.
He stated, “As these workers ventured forth in service to our nation, they encountered fate’s cruel blow, reminding us once again of the sacrifices Nigerian workers make daily to build a Nigeria that caters to all.
“No worker should face death or injury as a consequence of simply doing their job. We implore the government and all authorities tasked with Occupational Safety and Health to redouble their efforts to guarantee that workplaces and all avenues to and from work are made as safe as possible.
“While this tragic loss was labelled an “accident,” it underscores the critical need for reliable flight equipment, effective communication, and robust search-and-rescue capabilities.
“We urgently call on the relevant agencies in aviation and oil and gas to enact rigorous frameworks that prioritise workers’ safety and prevent further tragedies.”
