By Tejiri Ebikeme

Hundreds of workers under the umbrella of Dock Workers and Seafarers of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) Delta Port Warri today crippled the operations of Saipem Contracting Nigeria Limited in the NPA Warri Port premises.

The worker led by their Union executives barricaded the entrance to the company yard as early as 7am thereby obstructing operations of the company.

Speaking to newsmen, Comr. Austine Okpas, Chairman Dock Workers District and Comr. Fregene Taiwo CLO of Seafarers District condemned the antics of the management of Saipem Contracting Company, who they accused of not engaging their members as stipulated by  NIMASA rules instead resorting to using casual workers who are not dock workers neither seafarers.

Also speaking, Comr. Gabriel Koma and Comr. Clement Ukutaira both officers of the union said all effort to resolve this issue with the management of Saipem has not yield any positive result. They expressed disappointment as they have tried all peaceful measures in resolving this matter, they said that Saipem Contracting Nigeria Limited is not sincere on their part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) reached with Saipem since 2012.

The union therefore demands to meet with the representatives of the company for a round table discussion otherwise; the operations of the company would be continuously disrupted.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a source in the company said that management of the company is working round the clock to ensure that the issue is resolved amicably.

Meanwhile the gates of the company still remained shut while men of the Nigerian Army and police are on ground to maintain peace and ensure law and order.