Posted by After a “fruitful” meeting between the unions and the federal government, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) may shortly call off their ongoing statewide strike.
The Minister of Labor, Simon Bako Lalong, and the Minister of State for Labor, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyeajeocha, met with the striking unions on Wednesday, as previously reported by the janescope.
The meeting was held in Nuhu Ribadu’s office, the National Security Adviser, who was also present.
The event followed the organized labor movement’s nationwide walkout on November 1 in response to NLC President Joe Ajaero’s brutalization in Owerri, Imo State.
In an effort to protest unpaid salaries, the NLC President and other employees were attacked by alleged political thugs. Organized labor is demanding the arrest and prosecution of these individuals.
In several regions of the country, the Tuesday-starting strike action has severely hampered economic activity.
Shortly after the meeting with labor leaders, the Minister of Labor told reporters at the State House that the discussion had been productive.
He clarified that following intense talks, the labor leaders decided to provide their constituents a report and then go back to them.
“We held the meeting at the office of the National Security Adviser because it was about events that occurred, particularly in Imo State, and there were significant security concerns involved,” he stated.
“Every labor leader was present with us as well. We had a really productive conversation. In order to put an end to the strike, they have also decided to bring it back to their home districts.
TUC President Comrade Festus Osifo also spoke, stating that the Federal Government has made a number of appeals and promises that could result in the strike being suspended.
He stated, “We had a vigorous discussion during which several guarantees were provided in support of the announcement made by the NSA this morning that certain individuals have been detained.
We decided to review all of our previous interactions and adjust our communication style after they made multiple appeals and promises to us.