NLC and TUC Serve 14-Day Strike Warning to Nigerian Government Over Unfulfilled Subsidy Agreement
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| Nigerian Labour Congress NLC and Trade Union Congress TUC |
Compelling the Federal Government to fulfill its commitments, the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria TUC have jointly issued a 14-day nationwide strike notice. The warning comes amidst growing discontent over the government’s failure to implement agreements reached following the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol.
Leaders of the NLC and TUC expressed profound disappointment with the government’s disregard for the agreements reached on October 2, 2023, which were intended to mitigate the adverse effects of the subsidy removal and currency devaluation. Despite concerted efforts by organised labour to maintain industrial peace, the government’s apparent indifference to the widespread suffering and hardship has compelled the unions to take decisive action.
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The October 2 agreement, aimed at alleviating the socio-economic hardships faced by Nigerians, addressed the repercussions of the IMF/World Bank-induced hike in the price of PMS and the devaluation of the naira. However, the failure of the government to uphold its end of the bargain has exacerbated the plight of the masses and workers across the country.
In a statement issued by the unions, they lamented the necessity of resorting to such measures but stressed the urgent need to safeguard the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens. Effective February 9, the NLC and TUC have given the Federal Government a 14-day ultimatum to honor its commitments.
Among the unfulfilled promises is the implementation of a N35,000 wage award for civil servants, which remains outstanding despite assurances from the government. The unions reiterated their commitment to ensuring the welfare and well-being of Nigerian workers and citizens, emphasizing the imperative of holding the government accountable for its obligations.
As the countdown to the expiration of the strike notice begins, the nation awaits with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the interests of the Nigerian people. The impending strike serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the country and the pressing need for decisive action to address them.
