The group which threatened a showdown also demanded payment of its members, their terminal entitlements and reversal of the leave of absence given to them, noting that failure to do so will resort in it using “any known means to fight for members’ rights.”
The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the operator of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal II (MMA2), Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), to reverse the sacking of 34 workers or face picketing, among others.
The group which threatened a showdown also demanded payment of its members, their terminal entitlements and reversal of the leave of absence given to them, noting that failure to do so will resort in it using “any known means to fight for members’ rights.”
This is contained in a letter from ATSSSAN to the management of Bi-Courtney, signed by its Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Frances Akinjole.
In the letter, the group noted that out of 37 persons given letters of 10-day leave of absence, 34 were its members including those in the executive.
It reads; “We view your 10-day leave of absence letters to our executives and members as a clear victimisation of members who have made bold demands for their rights.
“In light of the above, we demand as follows: The payment of terminal entitlements to all deserving staff without further delay.
“The withdrawal of the 10 days leave of absence letters issued to our affected branch executives and members.
“We have made it clear to the BASL management that if they resolve to undertake staff rationalisation, we as a union are ready to engage them in discussions, but we will never accept intimidation and victimisation of our members in the manner management is going about.”
BASL, in reaction to the threat, said the disengagement of workers was in line with labour laws.
It said it complied with all laws of Nigeria regarding the compulsory 10-day leave of absence given to branch executive officers and members of its union in BASL.