Organised labour, comprising of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have issued 14-day nationwide strike notice to the Federal Government.
This action was taken as a result of the non-implementation of a 16-point agreement reached between organized labor and the government on October 2, 2023.
The two policies of removal of fuel subsidy and devaluation of the Naira has led to astronomical increase in the prices of goods and services across the country coupled with the rising insecurity across the country.
The NLC and TUC leaders expressed their disappointment at the government’s lack of concern for the suffering and hardship experienced by the citizens.
Despite their efforts to ensure industrial peace, they stated, the government has shown little regard for the consequences of its policies.
The October 2 agreement aimed to address the adverse effects of the price hike in petroleum products and the devaluation of the naira, both of which have had severe economic consequences for the masses and workers of Nigeria.
In a statement, the NLC and TUC express their regret in resorting to such measures, adding that the persistent neglect of the welfare of citizens and workers leaves them with no choice.
“These agreements which were reached with the federal government were focused on addressing the massive suffering and the general harsh socioeconomic consequences of the ill-conceived and ill-executed IMF/World Bank induced hike in the price of PMS and the Devaluation of the Naira.
“Constrained by this development and recognizing the urgency of the situation and the imperative of ensuring the protection and defence of the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens, the NLC and TUC hereby issue a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, to honour their part of the understanding within 14 Days from tomorrow, the 9th day of February, 2024,” the labour unions stated in a joint statement.
They added, ““It is regrettable that we are compelled to resort to such measures, but the persistent neglect of the welfare of citizens and Nigerian workers and the massive hardship leaves us with no choice. Therefore, everything must be done within the two weeks to avoid a situation where we may be compelled to take appropriate steps to protect Nigerian workers and masses.
“We call upon the Federal Government to honor its commitments without delay.
“The time for empty promises and excuses has passed. The time for action is now. Our patience has worn thin and the situation has become unbearable for workers and masses all over the federation.
“Effective February 9, the two labor centers have issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding that they honor their part of the understanding within 14 days,” they said.
The NLC and TUC explained the urgency of the situation and emphasize their resolve to protect and defend the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens.
There is as yet, no reaction from the government to the ultimatum.
