The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared a two-day warning strike to express their dissatisfaction with the Federal Government’s handling of the challenges caused by the removal of fuel subsidy. The strike will begin on Tuesday, September 5. NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the announcement during a press conference at the Labour House in Abuja on Friday, following resolutions made at the NLC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting the previous day.
The NLC accuses the Federal Government of neglecting negotiations and failing to implement previous resolutions from meetings with the government. The labour union had previously protested against what they described as the anti-people policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Demonstrations were held in various states across the country, including Lagos, Abia, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Rivers, Zamfara, Katsina, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, Kwara, Ogun, Oyo, Imo, Ondo, and Edo.
The protest was prompted by a seven-day ultimatum given to the Federal Government, demanding the reversal of all anti-poor policies, including the recent increase in PMS price and public school fees, as well as the release of withheld salary for university lecturers and workers. The NLC also called for an upward review of the minimum wage from N30,000 to N200,000. They argue that since President Tinubu’s inauguration speech in May 2023, where he stated that “subsidy is gone,” the well-being of Nigerians has been compromised.
Efforts to reach an agreement between the Presidency and the unions regarding palliatives for Nigerians affected by the petrol subsidy removal have been unsuccessful. Last month, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the N5 billion approved for each state and the FCT, stating that it would not have a significant impact on the people. Ajaero questioned whether the money was a loan or a palliative and argued that it would only amount to around N1,500 per person.
The NLC’s warning strike is a clear indication of their dissatisfaction with the government’s response to their demands. The strike aims to draw attention to the challenges faced by Nigerians as a result of the subsidy removal and to pressure the government into taking immediate action. The NLC is determined to fight for the rights and well-being of Nigerian workers and will continue to advocate for fair policies and adequate support for those affected by the removal of fuel subsidy.
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