The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have declared an indefinite nationwide strike starting on October 3. This decision was announced after a joint National Executive Council meeting between the TUC and NLC.
The strike is a result of the alleged insensitivity of the government to the plights of Nigerians since the removal of fuel subsidies. The labour unions have advised Nigerians to stockpile their homes with foodstuffs as the strike would shut down economic activities in the country.
The organizations said they have decided “in the spirit of the Independence Day celebration and to demonstrate our resolve for a truly independent Nigeria, to take our destinies into our own hands and rescue our nation”.
“To embark on an indefinite and total shutdown of the nation beginning on zero hours on Tuesday, the 3rd day of October 2023,” the statement reads
“To direct all workers in Nigeria to withdraw their services from their respective workplaces commencing on October 3rd.”
“To direct all affiliates and state councils to immediately start mobilizing accordingly for action to organize street protests and rallies until the government responds positively to our demands.”
Parralel Facts recalls that, earlier this month, the NLC initiated a two-day cautionary strike in response to the effects of the petrol subsidy removal on the general public.
In several states, workers fully adhered to the strike directive, resulting in a halt to operations in government establishments.
The NLC had pledged to commence an indefinite strike following a 21-day deadline that ended on September 26. The unions stated that, despite the ultimatum’s expiration, the federal government has consistently blocked all peaceful dialogue opportunities with organized labor regarding measures to shield Nigerians from severe hunger and hardship.
They expressed that the Federal Government has not substantially met the demands of Nigerian workers and citizens, as outlined in their mutually agreed roadmap for economic recovery and protection of workers and Nigerians from significant hardship.