As the nationwide strike kicks off, the Minister of Labour, Employment, and Productivity, Simon Lalong, has called for a meeting with labor leaders. Sources reveal that the meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, is expected to include leaders from the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress.
The labor unions had issued an order on Monday directing their affiliates to withdraw their services across the country from midnight on November 14, 2023. TUC President, Festus Osifo, conveyed this information to journalists in Abuja, emphasizing that the strike would persist until government entities fulfill their responsibilities.
The strike is in protest of the assault on NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and other executives in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1, as well as unresolved labor issues in Imo State. Ajaero had been arrested by the police ahead of a state-wide protest, a move contested by the police, who claimed it was for protective custody. Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, accused Ajaero of meddling in the state’s political affairs.
In preparation for the nationwide strike, the NLC and TUC communicated with their affiliates, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities, National Union of Electricity Employees, Nigeria Union of Teachers, Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, and Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics. The joint letter, signed by the National Secretary of NLC, Emmanuel Ugboaja, and the Secretary-General of TUC, Nuhu Toro, directed workers to withdraw their services from midnight.
Reacting to the planned strike, the Presidency described it as an attempt to blackmail the government. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, criticized the decision, stating that it contravenes a restraining order by the Industrial Court. While condemning the assault on Ajaero, Onanuga argued that the strike is an unwarranted move that could cause further hardship on the masses.
He emphasized that the strike action is an abuse of privilege and a disregard for the rule of law. The government reiterated its commitment to investigating the assault on Ajaero and criticized the labor movement for choosing a national strike over a personal matter involving a labor leader.
The statement concluded by labeling the strike as illegal, immoral, unjustifiable, and irresponsible, suggesting a hidden agenda to cause undue hardship and civil disturbance in the country.”