Nigeria: Turkish Airlines faces picketing over unlawful dismissal of union members in Lagos
Turkish Airlines’ management in Lagos has come under fire for its recent actions against some of its employees who are members of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE).
In a move perceived as an attempt to undermine the union, the airline has dismissed seven out of eleven union members, raising serious concerns over workers’ rights and union-busting tactics.
The dismissals, described by the union as being based on “trumped up charges,” were executed through a disciplinary committee that NUATE claims was not in accordance with the negotiated Conditions of Service.
This committee, according to the union, was constituted outside the agreed-upon framework, further fueling allegations of unfair treatment.
Adding to the tension, NUATE has disclosed plans by Turkish Airlines to remove the remaining four union members.
The union fears that the airline intends to replace them with new employees who would be discouraged from joining the union or alternatively, to engage a General Sales Agent (GSA), circumventing direct employment.
In a statement issued to journalists today – Monday May 20, 2024, the union said the affected employees, some of whom have given between ten to fourteen years of service, have been dismissed without benefits.
This move, NUATE asserts, is a clear violation of their constitutional right to unionise and is deemed as punishment for their union activities.
In response, the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been instructed to commence picketing Turkish Airlines in Lagos starting Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
The directive demands the reinstatement of all dismissed employees without any loss of benefits.
It also calls for the return of workers who were forced to resign or leave under duress due to their union membership, including those victimised back in 2020.
The NLC has called on all affiliate unions in the aviation sector to mobilise strongly for the picketing.
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council is on standby to escalate the action to Abuja airport if necessary.
The union’s stance is clear: “Injury to one is injury to all,” emphasising their commitment to solidarity and justice for the affected workers.
