The Nigerian government is making a last-minute attempt to prevent the nationwide strike scheduled for October 3, 2023, by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). The strike, declared in protest of the government’s alleged failure to provide post-subsidy palliatives for workers, has raised concerns about its potential economic impact.
The Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Productivity has assured the public that it will hold a meeting with the leadership of the unions before the strike commences. The spokesperson for the ministry, Olajide Oshundun, announced that the meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, would focus on the announcements to be made by President Bola Tinubu during his Independence Day broadcast on October 1.
During his Independence Day speech, Tinubu is expected to unveil a palliative package for workers in response to their demands. Oshundun revealed that the government had already addressed one of the NLC’s demands, securing the release of the factional National President of the National Association of Road Transport Workers, Tajudeen Baruwa, who had been detained by the police.
The second major demand from the unions pertains to wage awards for workers to mitigate the impact of the removal of petrol subsidies. Oshundun expressed confidence in resolving this matter, stating, “We will avert the strike. We got the news of their intention to go on strike. They need to be rest assured that there will be a pronouncement in the October 1 speech of Mr. President for Nigerian workers.”
Ajaero, the NLC leader, justified the strike decision during a virtual meeting of the National Executive Committee. He cited the government’s failure to reverse its policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies earlier in the year. The TUC, which had initially hesitated to participate in the strike, decided to join after discussions with NLC leadership.
However, Ajaero also raised concerns about efforts to divide the ranks of the NLC leadership and debunked rumors of financial compromise. He emphasized the unions’ commitment to conducting street protests and rallies until the government positively responds to their demands.
The Organized Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN) has warned both the government and labor about the potential consequences of the strike on the economy. The OPSN stressed that the economy cannot afford a nationwide strike at this time and called for cooperation between the government and unions to avert disruptions.
Despite these warnings, the NLC and TUC remain determined to proceed with the strike, as they believe the government has not adequately addressed the economic challenges facing Nigerians due to the removal of fuel subsidies. They are demanding concrete actions rather than promises.
The aviation and maritime sectors, among others, have expressed their intention to participate in the strike, potentially causing significant disruptions in various industries.
In response to the strike, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, appealed to organized labor to reconsider their plans and engage in dialogue with the government to find solutions to the nation’s economic challenges. He assured that the House would work on legislation and interventions to improve the welfare of Nigerian workers.
Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, has also called on the government to address the economic crisis and meet the NLC’s demands to avoid the impending industrial action.
The nation awaits the outcome of the meeting between the government and labor leaders, with hopes of a resolution that prevents the strike and ensures the well-being of Nigerian workers and citizens.