Normalcy returns to NLNG Train-7 site as Daewoo pledges tax resolution

– Condemns vandalism by protesters

Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — Normalcy and calm has returned to the Nigeria LNG Train-7 Project site in Bonny Island as protesting welders and fitters of Daewoo Engineering and Construction Nigeria, DECN, have resumed work.

The workers, who had downed tools over grievances relating to alleged over-taxation, returned to their duty posts after assurances were given that the issues would be addressed within two weeks.

The Management of Daewoo Engineering and Construction Nigeria, DECN, has assured that all concerns will be resolved amicably within two weeks.

Daewoo, in a statement signed by its Community Affairs and Security Manager, Bernard Ewubare, pledged to resolve the tax matter transparently, stressing its commitment to peace, dialogue, and the welfare of its workforce.

“While we respect the right of workers to express grievances, violence and destruction are unacceptable. We urge all parties to return to the path of constructive engagement,” the Management said.

The company clarified that all tax deductions from staff salaries are duly remitted to the Rivers State Internal Revenue Service, RIRS, with receipts and tax certificates generated by the Joint Tax Board, JTB, and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS. Workers with specific complaints of over-taxation were encouraged to submit evidence of pay slips for verification by the HR department.

Daewoo also reassured staff that no worker would be victimised, sanctioned, or declared redundant for participating in the protest. It further confirmed that no security agency had been authorised to arrest or interrogate any staff over the matter.

The company disclosed that it had already initiated the necessary processes, including direct engagement with RIRS, to address the concerns raised by the workers.

However, DECN expressed concern over violent actions during the protest, including assault on staff, attacks on security personnel, and damage to company property. It emphasized that while grievances are acknowledged, such acts undermine constructive resolution.

The Management further confirmed that consultations are ongoing with the project owners, workers’ unions, welders and fitters’ associations, and other stakeholders to secure a peaceful resolution.

Reassuring employees of its goodwill, DECN stressed that no worker involved in the protest would be victimized, sanctioned, or declared redundant. “No security agency has been authorized to arrest or interrogate any worker over the matter,” the statement added.