NLC, TUC Plan Mass Protest over Policies, Hardship, Give FG 14-Day Strike Notice

Gom Mirian

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have taken a decisive stand against the Bola Tinubu-led government, issuing a 14-day nationwide strike notice to the Federal Government.

This action comes in response to the government’s failure to implement the agreements reached on October 2, 2023, following the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.

Expressing deep concern over the government’s apparent disregard for the mass suffering and hardship experienced by citizens, the leaders of the NLC and TUC emphasised the urgent need for the implementation of measures to address the dire economic consequences of the removal of the subsidy and the devaluation of the naira.

The unions underscored the devastating impact of these policies on the general populace and the workforce, as predicted.

In a statement issued on Thursday, and signed by the NLC president, Comrade Joe Ajaero and the TUC president, Comrade (Engr.) Festus Osifo, the unions lamented the regrettable necessity of resorting to such measures but emphasised that the persistent neglect of the welfare of citizens and workers, coupled with the widespread hardship, has left them with no choice.

Effective February 9, the NLC and TUC have set a stern ultimatum for the Federal Government to honour their part of the understanding within 14 days, highlighting the urgency of the situation and the imperative of protecting and defending the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens.

“The failure of the Federal Government to fulfil promises, including the implementation of an N35,000 wage award for civil servants, has further fueled the discontent and frustration among the labour unions. As the nation braces for a potential nationwide strike, the looming labour unrest serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for the government to address the grievances and concerns of the workforce and citizens. The NLC and TUC have made it clear that they are prepared to take further action to ensure that the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers are upheld and respected.”