The $10 billion Train 7 project of the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) has been brought to a standstill as workers protest alleged irregularities in tax deductions.

The demonstration, which began last Thursday and continued through Sunday, involved welders, fitters, and junior staff of the Saipem-Chiyoda-Daewoo (SCD) Joint Venture in Bonny, Rivers State. The workers are demanding the issuance of their Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) and reimbursement of funds deducted from their salaries.

According to the workers, each has faced monthly deductions of around N150,000 over the past two years for tax clearance, but the company has yet to provide the required TINs. Some have raised concerns that an audit revealed the withheld taxes may not have been remitted to the federal government.

“We have contributed significantly to bringing the Train 7 project close to completion, yet our basic rights are being ignored,” said one of the protesters, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The President of the National Association of Plants Operators (NAPO), Mr. Harold Benstowe, urged anti-graft agencies to intervene and warned security operatives against intimidating the protesting staff.

NLNG’s Corporate Communications department has not yet commented on the protests despite repeated messages seeking a response.

The demonstration has highlighted ongoing tensions between workers and management, raising questions about compliance with tax regulations and workers’ rights on major energy projects in Nigeria.