Emmanuel OchayiIn a move aimed at compelling the Federal Government to address the longstanding grievances of Nigerian workers, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have jointly issued a 14-day nationwide strike notice.
The unions accuse the government, led by Bola Tinubu, of failing to fulfill agreements made in the aftermath of the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in October 2023.
Expressing deep disappointment, the leadership of both unions highlighted the severe economic hardships inflicted on citizens due to policies influenced by international financial institutions.
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“We predicted dire economic consequences, and unfortunately, our predictions have become the reality for the masses and workers of Nigeria,” lamented a spokesperson for the unions.
Despite concerted efforts by organized labor to maintain industrial peace, the government’s apparent disregard for the widespread suffering has left workers with no choice but to escalate their protest.
“It is regrettable that we are compelled to resort to such measures, but the persistent neglect of the welfare of citizens and Nigerian workers leaves us with no choice,” emphasized union representatives.
Central to the unions’ demands is the implementation of a promised N35,000 wage award for civil servants, a commitment that remains unfulfilled. “Constrained by this development and recognizing the urgency of the situation, we hereby issue a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government,” declared the NLC and TUC.
The ultimatum, effective from February 9, underscores the unions’ determination to safeguard the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens. Failure to honor the agreements within the stipulated timeframe will result in nationwide industrial action, further disrupting an already strained socio-economic landscape.
