Affiliates of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) in Lagos State heeded the call on Tuesday to commence an indefinite nationwide strike, following the directive issued by the labour unions.
The decision emerged from the National Executive Council meeting held on November 13, 2023, in Abuja, where the unions cited the Federal Government’s purported failure to address various pressing issues affecting workers. These issues encompassed concerns regarding the minimum wage, insecurity, corruption, and governance challenges.
The strike decision also stemmed from demands made by both unions, which they claim the government has neglected. This dissatisfaction heightened following the recent crisis in Imo State, resulting in the alleged mistreatment of NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, and other labour union members.
Despite the government’s warning issued on November 13, cautioning against the planned strike, citing a court order obtained from the National Industrial Court of Nigeria as a basis for restraining the unions, the labour groups proceeded with the strike action.
Secretary-General of the Nigeria Union of Railway Workers, Mr. Segun Esan, confirmed the union’s involvement in the strike, emphasizing the non-operation of trains due to the participation of railway workers in the nationwide strike.
“In adherence, all Nigerian Railway workers are mandated to join the nationwide strike action from the commencement of Tuesday, November 14, 2023, refraining from reporting to work and maintaining the complete closure of all Railway Corporation facilities until further directives from the Congress,” Esan stated.
Likewise, President of the Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance, and Financial Institutions, Mr. Oluwole Olusoji, affirmed that the association had communicated directives to its members for compliance with the strike. He emphasized the need to ensure the protection of lives and property during this period.
“We will actively monitor developments as they unfold,” Olusoji added.
