The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its 52 affiliate unions have issued a warning of a two-day nationwide warning strike set for Tuesday, September 5, and Wednesday, September 6, in a bid to combat the rising economic challenges in the country. NLC President Joe Ajaero conveyed that if the Federal Government doesn’t address the widespread suffering faced by Nigerians, an indefinite national shutdown could follow.
Accusing the government of neglecting social dialogue, Ajaero emphasized the need for the government to engage with organized labor on critical issues stemming from the recent surge in petroleum prices, which has inflicted severe hardships on workers and the populace.
In addition to their demands, labor unions have called for the evacuation of the illegally occupied National Headquarters of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). They also plan to initiate actions against Air Peace Airline and other aviation sector companies involved in workers’ rights violations.
The NLC has urged communities to refrain from taking matters into their own hands and to report issues involving the Amalgamated Union of Food Stuffs and Cattle Dealers of Nigeria for amicable resolution. They have also cautioned Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike against demolishing properties belonging to the less privileged, emphasizing the need to prioritize housing availability.
Ajaero warned that if Wike proceeds with property demolitions, he should be prepared to face protests from Nigerian workers and citizens. Furthermore, the NLC is planning a mass protest and rally in Imo State this September, aiming to compel the state government to cease the violation of workers’ rights and privileges.
The labor unions expressed concerns about what they perceive as a renewed government onslaught against labor unions, citing a police invasion of the National Union of Road Transport Workers headquarters. This development follows previous protests by labor unions against government policies, which they claim have not been adequately addressed or implemented.
