The Movement of Intellectuals for National Development (MIND) think tank has called on the Senate to investigate the alleged mistreatment of Nigerian employees at the International Oil Company (IOC).
In a petition published on BusinessDay, MIND Western Coordinator Ebi Warekromo pointed out several violations of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (NOGICD) at TotalEnergies.
The petition followed a letter by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Officials Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) outlining various grievances that have not been addressed by the management of TotalEnergies.
Pengassan called attention to reports of unethical practices, an unwarranted influx of expatriates in violation of local content laws, and resulting security concerns, and called for an investigation.
According to Warekromo, the issues raised by PENGASSAN have not been considered and hence the need to submit a letter to the Senate to save the Nigerian workers.
The petition states that violations of the NOGICD Act by oil companies include allowing expatriates to work without seeking prior approval from the NCDMB and failing to complete biometric registration. To overstay in Nigeria after completing the assignment and take on a role for Nigerians.
The petition also cautioned against entering into contracts with foreign companies without due process, which would further violate the NOGICD Act, especially if the Nigerian company is eligible and available to enter into such contracts.
“This action is a clear violation of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (NOGICD), which requires companies to obtain approval from the NCDMB before applying for foreign visas or work permits through the Federal Ministry of Home Affairs.
“What is even more concerning is the fact that Mr. Jean-Christophe Agrati currently holds a position in Contracts, Procurement and Nigerian Content, a position that is legally intended to be held by a legally qualified Nigerian,” the petition reads.
It also said there was a pervasive atmosphere of intimidation among local staff, who were warned not to report such issues.
According to the petition, several violations of the NOGICD Act have had far-reaching effects, including the ridicule and marginalization of Nigerian professionals within the organization, economic loss and career stagnation for Nigerian staff, and denial of employment and labor rights.
MIND, through the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, is urging the Senate to force the NCDMB to rigorously investigate violations and apply corrective and punitive measures where appropriate.
The petition also asked the Senate to direct the Federal Ministry of the Interior (Civil Rights and Business Department) to approve expatriate quotas and strictly comply with mandatory knowledge transfer requirements.
It also urged the Senate to require the Nigerian Immigration Service to clarify immigration and work permits for affected expatriates and ensure full compliance with immigration laws.
MIND reaffirmed the need for a supportive working environment for Nigerian professionals in the oil and gas industry.
