The National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria (NUTGTWN), an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has shut down operations at MDV Sacks Ltd—a subsidiary of the Bhojsons Group—over allegations of exploitation, inhumane treatment, and racial discrimination against more than 300 Nigerian workers.
Located within the Lafarge Cement premises in Ewekoro, Ogun State, the company stands accused of forcing factory workers to pay ₦18,000 for protective boots, while denying them fundamental employment rights such as allowances, annual leave, and formal letters of appointment.
The union also alleged that MDV Sacks Ltd has been suppressing workers’ right to unionize, in direct violation of Nigeria’s labour laws.
On Monday, members of the textile union, supported by other NLC-affiliated unions, staged a protest at the factory, effectively halting all operations. Chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with messages like “Injury to one is injury to all” and “MDV Lafarge management, stop harassment and intimidation of workers,” the protesters demanded that all staff leave the premises until their demands are met.
While the majority of workers complied and exited the facility in support, a few reportedly stayed behind.
Speaking at the demonstration, Deputy General Secretary of NUTGTWN, Comrade Emeka Nkwoala, criticized the company for reneging on commitments made during a mediation meeting held on May 7, 2025.
“At that meeting, the company agreed to allow union activities and issue formal employment letters to staff,” Nkwoala stated. “Yet, management has backtracked. Some members have since been unjustly terminated, while others continue to endure exploitative and degrading conditions. Nigerian labour laws are clear—this form of modern-day slavery cannot continue.”
Nkwoala further alleged that MDV Sacks Ltd promotes racial discrimination by subjecting Nigerian workers to inferior treatment compared to their expatriate counterparts.
Describing the protest as peaceful and orderly, he confirmed that the Ogun State Ministry of Labour has intervened. The Ministry reportedly ordered a return to the status quo, including reinstating sacked workers and paying all outstanding entitlements.
The union vowed to sustain pressure until justice is served and MDV Sacks Ltd is held accountable for its actions.
