Investigation Prompted by Death of TikTok Moderator Ladi Anzaki Olubumni in Kenya

The death of TikTok moderator Ladi Anzaki Olubumni has incited protests among gig workers in Kenya, leading to calls for an investigation into labor practices of the outsourcing firm she worked for. Allegations include denied leave requests, lack of work permits, and mistreatment of employees, accentuating the urgent need for improved labor rights for gig workers.

The tragic passing of Ladi Anzaki Olubumni, a Nigerian TikTok content moderator, has sparked significant outrage among gig workers in Kenya regarding the treatment of outsourced employees. Olubumni was discovered deceased in her Nairobi residence on March 7 after missing work for three days. The Kenya Union of Gig Workers (KUGWO) has called for a detailed investigation into her death, alleging that her requests for leave and a return ticket to Nigeria were consistently denied.

Reportedly, Olubumni worked for a major outsourcing company that had pledged her an annual ticket to Nigeria. However, colleagues asserted that she, along with other moderators, did not possess the proper work permit, instituting fears of extortion or harassment at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The firm has denied these allegations, asserting ongoing communication with Olubumni’s family and local authorities while refuting claims of silencing employees. CNN’s Larry Madowo pointed out that Olubumni’s colleagues are hesitant to provide statements on the record.

In light of these events, KUGWO has urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to comprehensively probe Olubumni’s death. Additionally, the union has urged the Ministry of Labour to evaluate the outsourcing firm’s labor practices, looking into alleged violations of labor laws, unauthorized wage deductions, and the mistreatment of workers. They also call for the firm to allow its employees the right to join trade unions as stipulated in Article 41 of the Kenyan Constitution.

Olubumni’s death marks a continuation of criticisms towards the same outsourcing company, as Facebook moderators in Kenya have previously filed lawsuits concerning poor working conditions, inadequate pay, and a detrimental work environment. These moderators reported being misled about the nature of the content they were to screen, resulting in cases of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This incident emphasizes the pressing need for enhanced labor rights and protections for gig economy workers.

The death of Ladi Anzaki Olubumni has highlighted critical issues surrounding labor rights for gig workers in Kenya, prompting calls for a comprehensive investigation and scrutiny of labor practices. The allegations against the outsourcing firm reveal serious concerns about worker treatment and labor law compliance. The need for improved protections and rights for gig workers is underscored by this situation, along with previous complaints from content moderators about poor working conditions.

Original Source: www.mwakilishi.com