Fresh Details Emerge as Allegations Against Sterling Petrochemical Face Scrutiny

Fresh information has cast doubt on a widely circulated article that recently accused Sterling Global Petrochemical and Fertiliser Limited (SPFL) of subjecting workers at its Ikot Abasi site to unsafe and inhumane conditions.

The initial report, which gained significant attention on social media, described SPFL’s operations as a “modern-day slave camp.” Among the claims were allegations that workers were forced to weld in standing water without protective gear, and that a young contract worker died from electrocution due to exposed live cables.

However, new details emerging from official records, eyewitness accounts, and third-party documentation appear to contradict key aspects of the original article.

One notable revelation is that the author of the viral piece, Mr. Uko Calistus, was not an external observer but a former site worker.

Documents reportedly obtained from SPFL and verified by a contracting intermediary confirm that Mr. Calistus was employed on a short-term basis through a labour contractor and was disengaged after multiple disciplinary issues related to safety compliance.

“He received several warnings but repeatedly breached safety protocols,” the contractor stated anonymously, adding that the decision to remove him from the site was based on safety concerns and not unrelated factors.

In response to claims that workers operated barefoot or without equipment, SPFL has released PPE distribution logs. These show that helmets, gloves, safety boots, and welding shields were issued to all workers, with signed acknowledgments. Video clips circulating online, including footage of the deceased worker, also appear to show personnel wearing the required protective gear at the time of operations.

Regarding the September 17 incident involving the death of a contract worker, an independent electrical audit reportedly found no evidence of current leakage or non-compliance with safety standards. Medical documentation also points to a seizure as the cause of death—a condition the worker had allegedly experienced in the past but did not disclose during the recruitment process.

SPFL has confirmed that the incident was promptly reported to the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) in line with the Employees’ Compensation Act, and that statutory compensation was offered to the family of the deceased.

Labour law experts note that the use of daily-wage contracts—often referred to as “no work, no pay”—is legal under Nigeria’s Labour Act, provided proper safety measures are in place and contract terms are respected. Documents such as employment letters, payroll records, and insurance certificates reportedly show compliance with these requirements at SPFL.

Supporting these claims, long-serving employee Mr. Emmanuel Okon, who has worked with SPFL for over six years, described the company’s safety culture as “proactive and consistent.”

“From my first day, I have always received my PPE on time. We have regular safety drills and toolbox meetings. In fact, I was recognised as Best Worker last year for maintaining a clean safety record,” Mr. Okon said.

SPFL’s parent company, Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), has operated in Nigeria since 2003 and is known for community projects including scholarships, healthcare support, and infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State.

While public reaction to the original article has been intense, the emergence of documented evidence, official statements, and expert opinions is challenging the accuracy of the report’s central claims. As more details continue to surface, the situation highlights the importance of verifying facts—particularly in cases involving serious allegations.