The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have jointly declared a nationwide strike, issuing a 14-day notice to the Federal Government. The strike is a response to the alleged failure of the Bola Tinubu-led administration to fulfill agreements reached on October 2, 2023, subsequent to the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol.
Expressing their dissatisfaction, leaders of the NLC and TUC voiced concern that despite their concerted efforts to maintain industrial peace, the government appears indifferent to the widespread suffering and hardship experienced throughout the country.
The October 2 agreement aimed to address the adverse socio-economic impacts of the IMF/World Bank-induced hike in the price of PMS and the devaluation of the naira. The unions’ statement on Thursday highlighted the dire economic consequences predicted for the masses and workers of Nigeria.
Regretting the necessity for such measures, the unions emphasized that persistent neglect of citizens’ welfare and the substantial hardship endured by the masses and workers left them with no alternative.
Effective February 9, the NLC and TUC announced several actions, stating, “Constrained by this development and recognizing the urgency of the situation and the imperative of ensuring the protection and defense of the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens, the NLC and TUC hereby issue a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government to honor their part of the understanding within 14 days from tomorrow, the 9th day of February 2024.”
Among the unfulfilled promises is the Federal Government’s commitment to implement a N35,000 wage award for civil servants, which, as of now, remains unpaid.
