
The Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) has expressed sadness over the news of the derailment of the Eastwind Aviation helicopter on October 24, 2024.
The tragic incident took the lives of eight dedicated Nigerian personnel on duty while they were en route from Port Harcourt to FPSO Nuim Antan off the coast of Calabar.
The Congress, in a statement, said it sympathized with the families of the deceased and the bodies they represent.
“This heartbreaking loss of life highlights the dangerous conditions our staff often face. As these workers stepped forward to serve our nation, they faced this cruel blow of fate, which reminded us once again of the sacrifices that Nigerian workers make every day to build a Nigeria that provides for all Completes.
“This speaks to the urgent and absolute need to prioritize the health and safety of workers – ensuring that Nigerian workers, in any sector, do not risk their lives every day to contribute to national progress.
“No employee should suffer death or injury as a result of simply doing their job. “We urge the government and all authorities concerned with occupational safety and health to redouble their efforts to ensure that workplaces and all routes to and from work are made as safe as possible,” the statement said “
The union said the tragedy also raises concerns about lax enforcement of safety standards, especially in high-risk areas such as the offshore oil and gas industry, where the risks are exceptionally high, noting that this could only be achieved through stringent With compliance measures. Only with comprehensive safety measures, and the commitment of employers and regulators, can we truly protect the lives of those who work in such complex and dangerous environments.
The statement added: “Although this tragic loss was ruled an “accident,” it underscores the critical need for reliable flight equipment, effective communications, and strong search-and-rescue capabilities. We call on relevant agencies in aviation and oil and gas to immediately put in place stringent frameworks that prioritize worker safety and prevent further tragedies.
The NLC demanded that the Federal Government, through all relevant agencies, conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of this accident, as it is only through a comprehensive investigation that we can uncover the necessary lessons to prevent such tragedies in the future and ensure that Can make Nigerian workers better off. reserve.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased, especially our colleagues, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), who lost their lives. ” Valuable member in this terrible accident. We pray for strength and solace for the bereaved and the entire nation shocked by this enormous loss.”
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