Hitech Construction Workers Strike Over Pay Cuts and Treatment

Workers of Hitech Construction Company, responsible for Section 3B of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, initiated a strike over allegations of unfair treatment, salary cuts, and the demand for the reinstatement of State Liaison Officer Mr Asuquo Ukpayang. The protest occurred on Wednesday at the company's construction yard in Awi, Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, with around 600 workers participating.

Military personnel were deployed to secure the facility. The workers claimed that Lebanese expatriates refused to work with Ukpayang, instead appointing a Community Liaison Officer they could control.

Quality Control worker Esikere Peter reported a reduction in working hours from eight to two and the removal of night shifts, with some workers remaining on duty until 11 p.m. without pay. Other allegations included intimidation, harsh working conditions, and inadequate facilities for female workers.

Ukpayang expressed solidarity with the workers and stated he would engage Hitech management and relevant authorities to address the issues raised.