MWUN Issues 21-Day Ultimatum To Melsmore Marine Over Non-Compliance With Labour Regulations

MWUN Issues 21-Day Ultimatum To Melsmore Marine Over Non-Compliance With Labour Regulations

By Frank Odinukaeze

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to Melsmore Marine Nigeria Limited, citing the company’s failure to comply with key labour standards, including the provision of a valid Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and the remittance records for workers’ Pension Fund Administrators (PFA).

In a strongly worded press release signed by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media for MWUN, the Union expressed dismay over what it described as the “defiant refusal” by Melsmore Marine to provide the requested documents, despite repeated conciliatory efforts by the union leadership.

The ultimatum, issued under the directive of MWUN President-General, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, comes after prolonged efforts to engage the management of Melsmore Marine, whose office is located at Choscharis Plaza, Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to the Union, Melsmore Marine operates within the maritime sector and employs members of MWUN who are actively involved in maritime operations. As such, the company is obligated under industry regulations and Nigeria’s extant labour laws to maintain and disclose records related to worker welfare, including CBAs and pension contributions.

The Union alleges that Melsmore’s refusal to release the documents has created an atmosphere of mistrust and suspicion among its employees, suggesting that the company may be involved in actions that shortchange workers’ statutory entitlements.

“MWUN believes Melsmore’s posture amounts to deception and fraud,” the statement reads. “This has sparked restiveness among the employees, who fear they may have been denied their rightful pension benefits.”

MWUN has therefore demanded the immediate release of the current CBA and detailed records of pension remittances. The Union warns that failure to comply within 21 days will trigger industrial action, including nationwide picketing of all Melsmore Marine offices and operational locations.

“This 21-day ultimatum serves as a final warning,” the Union emphasized. “Melsmore must choose between cooperation and confrontation.”

The Union concluded by reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of maritime workers across Nigeria.