Ivory Coast: State oil company workers extend strike

Workers at Ivory Coast’s state oil company, Petroci, are extending their strike as they seek to bring in employees from other companies in the sector to join the ongoing protests.

The workers are protesting against the wave of recent layoffs by the company’s management.

At least 50 out of 600 employees were dismissed last month with more than 100 others expected to lose their jobs in the coming days.

Operations came to a standstill on Tuesday with the workers vowing to continue till their demands are met.

They are however requesting the country’s authorities to intervene before the situation gets out of hand.

Petroci controls 36 percent of Ivory Coast’s domestic gas distribution as well as about 30 filling stations.

It also partners with companies dealing with production and exploration, and manages a logistical base that services offshore blocks.