A civil society organisation, the Movement of Intellectuals for National Development (MIND), has called on the Nigerian Senate to investigate allegations of maltreatment of Nigerian workers at TotalEnergies.

MIND made the call while criticising the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over what it described as an unconvincing response to a petition submitted to the Senate on the matter.

In a statement issued by its Western Coordinator, Ebi Warekromo, the group said the petition was based on verified documents and first-hand accounts from affected workers. It added that some of the issues raised were drawn from previous communications allegedly authored by PENGASSAN’s local branch, which had highlighted concerns about labour practices and management conduct within the company.

According to MIND, the allegations include workplace intimidation, bullying by some expatriate staff, security concerns, and possible violations of Nigeria’s local content law, particularly claims that expatriate appointments were extended beyond approved limits.

The group dismissed claims that the documents involved were merely internal correspondence, arguing that labour issues affecting workers’ welfare should not be shielded by confidentiality. It said such matters deserve public and legislative attention when internal resolution mechanisms fail.

MIND also questioned PENGASSAN’s effectiveness in defending its members and urged the union to support a Senate hearing, describing it as an opportunity to clarify issues, restore confidence, and strengthen accountability.

The organisation stressed that its action was not an attack on the union but a response to what it described as weak representation. It called on labour unions, regulators, and industry stakeholders to work together to improve labour standards in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, while reaffirming its commitment to defending the rights of Nigerian workers.