The nationwide strike, led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has been temporarily suspended after the intervention of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu. The strike was initiated in response to an alleged assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero.
The assault occurred in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1, where Ajaero, protesting unpaid salaries to government employees, was reportedly beaten by hoodlums and detained by the police. The labour movement issued an ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the arrest of the perpetrators among other conditions.
The suspension of the strike was announced following a meeting between the labour leaders and the NSA. Tommy Etim, the National Deputy President of the TUC, stated that the decision to suspend the strike was based on the trust the unions had in Ribadu, who assured them of a thorough investigation and proper follow-up.
Despite the temporary suspension, the NLC listed six conditions for calling off the strike indefinitely, including the arrest and prosecution of those involved in the assault on Ajaero.
Private Sector and Maritime Operators Criticize Ill-Timed Strike
The organized Private Sector (OPS) and maritime operators have criticized the NLC and TUC for the timing and perceived misconceptions behind the nationwide strike. The OPS, comprising crucial players in the economy, expressed concern that the strike would impact the Federal Government’s ability to meet its yearly revenue target.
Critics argue that the ill-timed strike could disrupt economic activities, particularly as the naira struggles for stability. The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Deputy President, Gabriel Idahosa, labeled the decision to strike over an assault on the NLC President as an abuse of power.
Economic Impact and Losses Estimated in Billions
The strike’s economic repercussions have begun to surface, with estimates suggesting losses ranging from N10 billion to N20 billion in the maritime sector alone. Licensed customs agents reported difficulties in operations, affecting businesses, causing financial losses, and hindering the offloading of cargoes.
The strike’s impact has also been felt in the power sector, with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company attributing blackouts in some South-East states to the strike, as labour task forces forced workers out of Transmission Company of Nigeria stations.
Labour’s Demands and Conditions for Resuming Strike
While the strike is temporarily halted, the NLC has laid out six conditions that must be met before the unions consider ending the strike permanently. These demands include the arrest and prosecution of the special adviser to the Imo governor involved in the assault and the apprehension, prosecution, and dismissal of all police officers and thugs linked to the attack.
The outcome of the investigation into the assault on Ajaero is expected to play a crucial role in determining the unions’ next steps. The Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, remains optimistic that the industrial action will be called off soon.
As the nation awaits further developments, the suspension of the strike raises questions about the balance between workers’ rights and the economic implications of such protests.