The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, His Royal Majesty Mike Sado, has mediated the reinstatement of over 400 truck drivers sacked by BUA Cement following a labour dispute that halted transport operations in the community. The monarch disclosed that protests by the drivers had led to their dismissal and a complete shutdown of BUA's logistics activities in Okpella, worsening unemployment and economic hardship. On Wednesday in Benin, he revealed that a high-powered delegation he led met with BUA Group Chairman Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, successfully appealing for the workers' return. "We pleaded with the chairman, and after deliberations, we all agreed that the drivers should be reinstated," the king said, noting that management had previously ruled out rehiring them.
In addition to reinstatement, Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu approved payment of salary arrears for the period from January to March. The monarch also confirmed that discussions covered community development, particularly the long-delayed BUA Cement hospital project, stating that designs are complete and construction could begin at any moment. He described the resolution as part of broader efforts to improve livelihoods and create youth opportunities in Okpella. "What is important is not the absence of crisis, but the willingness to resolve issues and move forward for the collective good," he said.
A traditional ruler stepping in where formal labour structures failed underscores how deeply institutional gaps run in Nigeria's industrial relations. The fact that over 400 jobs were restored only after a king intervened — not through legal channels or union action — reveals the fragility of workers' protections in private sector disputes. If BUA, a major conglomerate, needed royal persuasion to reverse a mass dismissal, it raises serious questions about accountability and the enforcement of labour rights. This outcome benefits the drivers, but it also normalises the idea that access to justice depends on who you know, not what you're owed.
