A Chinese expatriate with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the company managing the electric rapid transit line in Lagos, has reportedly ordered a Nigerian soldier to assault two Nigerian workers.
The incident, which occurred at the Abule Ado area of the Lagos Blue Line rail project on Friday, was allegedly triggered when the workers attempted to sit in the back cabin of a Toyota Hilux owned by the company.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the expatriate became infuriated and instructed the soldier attached to him to “deal extensively with them till to his satisfaction.” Reports indicate that this is the third such incident involving CCECC workers in the past month.
One of the witnesses stated, “At about 5:30 pm yesterday, after work, these two workers wanted to go home at the back of the Hilux. The Chinese man saw them and instructed the soldier with him to brutalise these workers. The soldier began hitting the workers with his gun, causing severe injuries.”
Another source expressed outrage, stating, “It is unacceptable that a foreigner would direct a Nigerian soldier, paid by taxpayers, to brutalise Nigerians. The Lagos State government and military authorities should investigate and take appropriate action.”
The incident sheds light on the poor working conditions faced by many laborers on the project. Witnesses claimed that workers are underpaid, earning less than N70,000 per month while working long hours from Monday to Sunday.
This development follows another controversy involving a Chinese national who was caught on video mutilating Nigerian currency after Lagos State officials sealed his company for violating regulations.
The ongoing incidents have sparked calls for thorough investigations by relevant authorities to ensure accountability and protection of Nigerian workers.
Source: Sahara Reporters, December 14, 2024.