Worried by the recent upsurge of sea piracy on Nigeria’s waterways, the branch President of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu has called on the Federal Government to take proactive action in ameliorating further occurrences.

Comrade Bunu, who made the call during an interview with our correspondent after the inauguration of the Sea Truck unit executive of the union in Port Harcourt recently said the increasing rate of sea piracy and armed robbery on Nigeria’s waterways has become a serious threat to the maritime sector, pointing out that if not nipped in the bud now would drive away would – be investors into the business.

According to him, time has come for a drastic measure to be taken against this ugly trend as it is threatening the economic survival of the sector in the country, especially in the Niger Delta.

He hinted that within four months, a good number of seafarers from SeaTruck were abducted but later released after some gratification, stressing that time has come for the government to stop further kidnap in vessels as the international maritime body is also not happy with the development.

The MWUN Branch President of Seafarers, National Inland Waterways (NIWA), Seamen and Water Transport Owners noted that another challenge that is facing the union is that of unemployment as most maritime operators do not follow due process in engaging seafarers.

He stated that a taskforce or monitoring committee would soon be set up to ensure strict compliance and that any company that failed in this regard would be sealed-up.

Comrade Bunu however commended Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in the state for living up to their responsibilities and also rated the activities of the seafarers high, assuring that the union would always support them in their welfare and conducive operational atmosphere.

He also thanked all affiliate bodies for their continued collaboration, enjoining them not to relent.

The Tide

correspondent gathered that a 90 day ultimatum or get sanctioned threat issued by the United States Coast Guard to the Nigerian Government to ensure proper implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code port security will expire this month.

Meanwhile, also speaking with out correspondent, the chairman of SeaTruck unit of the union, Comrade Ekine Tomboitemea thanked God for a peaceful and transparent election and described his victory as a leader to serve and achieve desired result for the workers.

Comrade Tomboitemea said the task is enormous but expressed optimism that with the co-operation and support of all, the sky would be their limit, thanking all for making the day great.

Other Exco members elected include Comrades Michael Amadi – Vice Chairman, Afinidi Job – Secretary, Young Young-Jack – Asst Secretary, Linus Woffe – Treasurer, Chris Johnson – Fin. Secretary, Godsgift Akpengi – Special female member while Sam Otelema and Igwe Ikebuike were Patron and Organising Secretary respectively.

The faction was attended by the state chairman of the union, Comrade Jonah Jumbo, the vice – Ifeanyi Dominic Godwin, the Fin Sec – Prince Isesele, the Secretary, Eze Robert among others.