The organized labor has instructed its affiliate unions to end the ongoing strike starting Thursday. The decision comes after the suspension of the indefinite strike that commenced on November 14, following mediation by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) jointly announced the suspension. Emmanuel Ugbaja, the General Secretary of NLC, and Nuhu Toro, the Secretary General of TUC, clarified that the suspension aims to pave the way for further discussions.
These talks follow the federal government’s response to organized labor’s pressing demands concerning the abduction and assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero and others.
The incidents occurred on November 1, 2023, in Owerri, Imo state, at the hands of the Police and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s thugs. The NSA conveyed the government’s apology and promised to coordinate an investigation.
Some perpetrators have been arrested, with assurances that all others will be apprehended and prosecuted.
A thorough investigation is underway, and the labor leadership will be regularly updated on progress. The NLC and TUC extended appreciation to affiliates and state councils for their unwavering commitment, leading to the success of the nationwide strike.
Affiliates and State councils of both NLC and TUC are directed to end the strike, resume work on Thursday, November 16, 2023, and remain vigilant as they await the fulfillment of remaining agreements.
The statement read,
“Sequel to the emergency joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NLC and TUC today, the 15th day of November, 2023 in which a thorough review of the offers presented by the federal government through the National Security Adviser during its earlier meeting with the leadership of both centers was made, a resolution was reached to suspend the ongoing nationwide strike, which commenced on the 14th November, 2023.
“This suspension is intended to facilitate further discussions after the federal government had met our crucial demands to address the distressing abduction and brutalization of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and others.
“These incidents occurred at the hands of the Police and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s thugs in Owerri, Imo state, on the 1st day of November, 2023.
“An apology was tendered on behalf of the government by The NSA, who promised to coordinate the investigation. Some of the perpetrators have been arrested, and we were given high assurances that all others will be fished out and prosecuted.
“High-powered investigation is currently being carried out and the leadership of the labour centers will be briefed continuously as progress is being made.
“We extend our commendation and salute to all affiliates and state councils for their unwavering commitment and tenacity, which contributed to the success of the nationwide strike.
“Therefore, all affiliates and State councils of both the NLC and TUC are hereby directed to demobilize, cease any further escalation of the indefinite strike action, and fully resume work tomorrow, Thursday, the 16th day of November, 2023.
“Once again, we convey our appreciation for your cooperation, resilience, and determination in ensuring the success of the indefinite nationwide strike.
“We encourage you to remain vigilant as we await the fulfillment of the remaining agreements.”