In a tense standoff between labor unions and the Federal Government, Tommy Etim, the National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has firmly criticized the government’s efforts to obstruct organized labor from launching an indefinite nationwide strike starting on Tuesday. Etim has declared that labor leaders are prepared to face imprisonment in their relentless pursuit of improved conditions for Nigerian workers.
This controversy arises in response to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, warning that the proposed strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and TUC violates an existing court order prohibiting the unions from declaring an industrial action.
The NLC and TUC recently announced an indefinite strike set to commence on October 3, 2023, to protest the alleged lack of post-subsidy palliatives for workers and the failure of the Federal Government to implement policies aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by the public following the removal of fuel subsidies.
As tensions escalate, the labor unions have instructed their state chapters and affiliates to mobilize for the shutdown of crucial facilities and infrastructure, including airports, seaports, electricity grids, and fuel supply across the country.
The Attorney-General, in a letter addressed to Femi Falana, SAN, the counsel for the NLC and TUC, emphasized that the contempt proceedings against the labor leaders were initiated due to their disregard for the court order. He noted that the suit was withdrawn following the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly.
Fagbemi stressed that the strike action proposed by the unions directly relates to the fuel subsidy removal and the provision of worker palliatives, issues currently before the National Industrial Court for adjudication. Consequently, the strike would violate the interim injunctive order issued on June 5, 2023, restraining both the NLC and TUC from engaging in any industrial action pending the court’s decision.
In response to the Attorney-General’s warning, Tommy Etim, the TUC Deputy President, brushed off the threat of contempt charges, asserting that organized labor remains resolute in its plans for the strike and is willing to endure imprisonment for their cause.
Prominent legal experts have weighed in, with many aligning with the Attorney-General’s stance, emphasizing the importance of respecting court orders and warning that disobedience could lead to serious consequences for the labor leaders.
Meanwhile, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has urged the NLC and TUC to reconsider their planned strike, emphasizing the potential adverse economic impact it could have on Nigeria. He assured that workers’ salaries would be reviewed in the coming weeks and called for cooperation in the interest of the nation.
At the national level, the National Economic Council (NEC) has appealed to state governors to engage in negotiations with labor unions in their respective states to avert the impending nationwide strike. NEC warned that the strike would further strain Nigeria’s economy, which is already grappling with inflation, forex shortages, and low oil production.
The situation remains fluid, with labor unions and the government locked in a contentious dispute as the October 3 strike deadline approaches.