- NLC, TUC, plans to embark on an indefinite strike from October 3.
- Says government is refusing to dialogue over fuel subsidy hike.
Organized labour in Nigeria, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has announced an indefinite nationwide strike from October 3, 2023, over the federal government’s delay in addressing their concerns following the removal of subsidy on petrol.
The labour unions accused the government of abdicating its responsibility and demonstrating unwillingness to act, abandoning Nigerian people and workers to excruciating poverty and affliction. They also accused the government of continually forestalling all avenues to peaceful dialogue with organized labour on ways to save Nigerians from the huge hunger and suffering being experienced across the nation as a result of the hike in the price of petrol.
The labour unions further alleged that the government has continued to demonstrate an unwillingness to mitigate the massive hardship in the country as well as complete lack of intention to take positive steps and empathy for the multi-dimensionally impoverished citizens of Nigeria.
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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, appealed to the labour unions to consider the various actions being taken by the Federal Government to alleviate the current hardship faced by Nigerians. He assured the unions that the House remains committed to getting a survival wage to all Nigerian workers.
However, the labour unions have insisted on going ahead with the strike, arguing that the government has failed to meet their demands in any substantial way. The strike is expected to have a significant impact on the Nigerian economy, as it will disrupt the transportation, oil and gas, and other sectors.