The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has denounced the recent outbreak of violence at Tincan Island Port in Lagos.
The union led by Com. Adewale Adeyanju, expressed grave concern over the barbaric attack on truckers by hoodlums allegedly hired by the Lagos State Cargo & Transport Committee (LASTCOC).
The mayhem which lasted for several hours, saw numerous truckers assaulted with machetes and other deadly weapons, resulting in varying degrees of injuries.
Giving its version of what happened, the union in a press statement made available to our correspondent, alleged that the assailants who were armed with dangerous weapons, descended upon the port to enforce the illegal sale of tickets at the gate, starting from the Tincan Port. A heated altercation between the hoodlums and truck drivers ignited the violent confrontation.
The union explained that security agencies deployed at the port intervened to quell the escalating tension, which included exchanges of gunfire between the hoodlums and security personnel.
The MWUN condemned the recurring criminal activities that disrupt legitimate businesses within the maritime sector and endanger the safety of workers and property.
“Recall that this incident is not an isolated one, as similar attacks from unidentified associations had previously plagued the Tincan Port, resulting in loss of lives and damage to vehicles”, the union stated.
The MWUN emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and proactive security measures by all relevant authorities to safeguard individuals, Truckers, and assets within and around the ports.
The union further underscored the detrimental impact of hostilities and crises on the conducive environment necessary for thriving business operations, while urging swift action from security agencies to maintain peace and security within the maritime sector, emphasizing that sustainable economic activities depend on a secure and stable environment.
The union concluded by calling on all stakeholders, including government agencies and law enforcement bodies, to collaborate in ensuring the safety and security of maritime operations, thereby fostering a conducive business environment conducive for growth and prosperity.
