By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
NLC and TUC announce nationwide activity halt from October 3
In a significant development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have jointly declared their intention to suspend activities nationwide starting from October 3, 2023. This decision comes in the wake of what the Labour Unions have labeled as the government’s “failure” to effectively implement policies aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by Nigerians following the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
During a virtual National Executive Council meeting held on Zoom, NLC National President, Joe Ajaero, informed members that discussions had taken place with TUC officials to chart a collective course of action. Ajaero emphasized that both centers had concurred on the need to convey their stance to the government.
While some initial resistance was encountered from certain NLC members regarding collaboration with TUC, prevailing circumstances have necessitated a unified front. Ajaero pointed out that the government’s response thus far has been lacking in proactivity, making definitive action imperative this time around.
The 21-day ultimatum issued by the NLC concluded last week, with National President Joe Ajaero expressing dissatisfaction that none of the demands put forth to the Federal Government had been addressed.
Earlier in September, the union conducted a two-day nationwide warning strike (September 5 and 6) as a demonstration of their preparedness for an impending indefinite strike later in the month. Among their key demands are wage awards, implementation of palliatives, tax exemptions, allowances for public sector workers, and a reassessment of the minimum wage.
On June 19, President Bola Tinubu established the Presidential Steering Committee and various sub-committees to deliberate on the framework for palliatives. Despite a commitment from the Federal Government to restructure this engagement, the eight-week timeframe for conclusion and implementation of the framework expired in August without any discernible progress.
The sub-committees have yet to convene or fulfill their mandates, a development that has left the leadership of both NLC and TUC frustrated. Further details on this matter will be provided in subsequent updates.