In a notable turn of events, the Nigerian government has officially retracted the contempt of court accusations it had brought against organised labour in the wake of their nationwide protest.
A letter dispatched to Falana and Falana’s Chambers, the lead legal representatives for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), confirmed this reversal. Dated 7th August, the missive bore the signature of the Solicitor General of the Federation, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba.
Previously, the National Industrial Court (NICN), operating under the jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Justice, had summoned the leadership of organised labour on allegations of contempt of court, stemming from their involvement in the protest.
This development follows closely on the heels of organised labour’s ultimatum, setting a deadline of 14th August for the Federal Government to revoke the contempt charges, failing which a nationwide strike would be initiated.
The widespread protests by organised labour were triggered by perceived anti-poor policies of the government, with the removal of subsidies causing significant hardships for Nigerians.
The Ministry’s letter pointedly noted, “Kindly recall the exchange of correspondence between the ministry and your office on the need for compliance with the extant court orders, restraining industrial action of any kind on the part of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress.”
“The position of the ministry was informed by the need to safeguard the integrity of the court and prevent avoidable service disruption or damage to public facilities.”
The letter highlighted that despite the prior communications and interventions, the labour unions proceeded with their industrial action on August 2nd through public protests. This action reportedly led to work disruptions and the eventual breach of the National Assembly’s gates.
The Ministry clarified that it initiated contempt proceedings on August 2nd, in line with legal provisions, with Form 48 being filed. However, in light of subsequent developments, including President Bola Tinubu’s intervention and the labour unions’ decision to call off the strike following discussions with the President and National Assembly leadership, the Ministry chose not to proceed with the subsequent stages of contempt proceedings.
The letter concluded by pointing out that the non-issuance of Form 49 by August 4th rendered the contempt proceedings inconclusive. It also suggested that the issues raised by the NLC’s communique regarding the proceedings had been superseded by subsequent events.
