NLC Mourns Eight Workers Lost in EastWind Helicopter Crash

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight Nigerian workers on October 24, 2024.

The EastWind Aviation helicopter, carrying workers en route to the FPSO NUIM ANTAN offshore site from Port Harcourt, went down off the coast of Calabar, leaving the nation mourning the loss of those who were serving in critical roles to advance Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

In an official statement, the NLC extended its condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. “As these workers ventured forth in service to our nation, they encountered fate’s cruel blow, reminding us once again of the sacrifices Nigerian workers make daily to build a Nigeria that caters to all,” the NLC said, underlining the selflessness with which these individuals served their country.

The tragedy, according to the NLC, highlights the dangerous conditions that many Nigerian workers face. “No worker should face death or injury as a consequence of simply doing their job,” the NLC asserted, calling on the government and regulatory bodies to ensure stricter enforcement of safety protocols across all industries, particularly in high-risk sectors like offshore oil and gas.

The NLC emphasized the need for improved health and safety standards to protect workers. “This tragedy heightens our concerns about the lax enforcement of safety standards, especially in high-risk sectors where the stakes are exceptionally high,” the statement noted.

The NLC urged both the government and private employers to adopt comprehensive safeguards to minimize risks for workers, particularly in challenging environments.

Additionally, the NLC raised concerns regarding the reliability of flight equipment and emergency response mechanisms, urging the government to enhance search-and-rescue capabilities for incidents involving high-risk industries. “While this tragic loss was labeled an ‘accident,’ it underscores the critical need for reliable flight equipment, effective communication, and robust search-and-rescue capabilities,” the NLC stated.

In response to the tragedy, the NLC called for a thorough investigation into the crash. “Only through a comprehensive inquiry can we uncover the lessons necessary to prevent such tragedies in the future and ensure that Nigerian workers are better protected,” they asserted.

The NLC extended special condolences to its affiliates, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), who lost valued members in the crash. “We pray for strength and comfort for those mourning and for the entire nation, shaken by this heavy loss,” the NLC said.

Reaffirming its commitment to advocating for improved workplace safety, the NLC vowed to continue its fight for the welfare and protection of Nigerian workers. “It is only by championing these values that we can avoid future tragedies and honor the memory of those we have lost,” the organization concluded.

Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, closed the statement with a heartfelt prayer for the departed. “May the souls of the departed rest in the bosom of God,” he said, as the NLC and the nation continue to mourn the devastating loss.