Aviation unions begin indefinite strike at Arik Air over 7 months’ salary arrears
The National Executive Council of National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), have directed their members and other aviation workers, to commence a joint strike action at Arik Air with effect from today, Tuesday.
The strike, according to a statement jointly signed by Abba Ocheme, Olayinka Abioye and Frances Akinjole for the three unions, will continue indefinitely until the management of airline allows total unionisation of its employees in compliance with extant labour laws and with respect to the country’s constitution.
The statement disclosed that the management of Arik Air sacked employees who have been victimised for their roles in the effort to bring about unionisation in Arik Air.
It stated further called on the airline to pay off salary arrears of seven months with commitment to pay salaries as at when due hence forth.
Other requests included, the immediate review of all employee remunerations which have remained the same since inception of Arik Air over ten years ago.
Immediate commencement of negotiations of Conditions of Service to be concluded within four (4) weeks and remittance of Pension, Tax, and statutory deductions to the appropriate authorities.
It also urged Arik Air management to comply with Nigerian Expatriate Quota law.
The unions noted that towards the full realisation of the strike action, all aviation workers, in complete solidarity with their enslaved comrades in Arik Air shall withdraw all services being rendered by third parties.
They stated that the aviation workers will be supported by Nigerian workers from all other sectors throughout Nigeria to underscore the seriousness of the matter at hand.
“In the above respect, all ground handling services, security clearance for Arik Air ticket holders, marshaling, aviation fuel supply, air traffic control, safety inspection, etc will be completely withdrawn.
“All Arik Air employees, aviation workers, and other stakeholders are hereby enjoined to ensure full compliance with this directive”
The head of corporate communications could not be reached for comments on the issue.
