The Organized Labour has provided a rationale for the suspension of the nationwide indefinite strike initiated on November 14. Mr. Emmanuel Ugboaja, the General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), elucidated on the decision in a statement co-signed with Mr. Nuhu Toro, the Secretary General of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on Wednesday.
During the session of the National Executive Council (NEC), a comprehensive evaluation of the offers presented by the Federal Government, represented by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, was conducted. The labour leaders found the government’s offers to be credible, prompting a reconsideration of their action. Subsequent to the meeting, directives were issued to all affiliates and State councils of the NLC and TUC to demobilize and refrain from further escalating the indefinite strike action.
Work is set to fully resume on Thursday, the 16th day of November, 2023. The suspension is intended to facilitate further discussions, as the government has met crucial demands. Specifically, the government is expected to address the distressing abduction and brutalization of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, and others. These incidents occurred at the hands of the Police and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s thugs in Owerri, Imo, on November 1, 2023.
Mr. Ugboaja mentioned that an apology was issued on behalf of the government by the NSA, who pledged to coordinate the investigation. Some of the perpetrators have already been apprehended, with assurances that others will be identified and prosecuted. A high-powered investigation is currently underway, and the leadership of labour centers will be continuously briefed on the progress.
Mr. Ugboaja expressed appreciation for the unwavering commitment and tenacity of all affiliates and state councils, acknowledging their crucial role in the success of the indefinite nationwide strike. He urged continued vigilance as they await the fulfillment of the remaining agreements.