The Nigerian Presidency has strongly criticized the decision of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to embark on a nationwide strike over the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero, labeling it as unwarranted and an attempt to blackmail the government.
In a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the government expressed bewilderment over the unions’ choice to punish the entire nation of over 200 million people for a personal matter involving the NLC President. The unions had announced their intention to go on strike starting from 14th November in protest of the assault on Ajaero in Owerri, Imo State, the previous week.
While acknowledging that violence and assault against any Nigerian are unacceptable, the statement highlighted that the Inspector General of Police had ordered an investigation into the incident. It further emphasized that calling for a national strike over a personal issue of a labor leader, especially in contravention of a clear court order against any industrial action, amounted to an abuse of privilege.
The statement stressed that power should never be employed to settle personal scores but should instead be utilized to promote collective progress and advance national interests. The government expressed concern that the planned strike was immoral, unjustifiable, and irresponsible in light of the court order restraining the unions from embarking on the industrial action.
The Attorney-General of the Federation’s office also joined in advising the unions against the strike, urging them to respect the existing court order. The government emphasized that disobedience to court orders and a lack of respect for the judiciary should not reflect the values that the labor movement traditionally upholds.
The Presidency reiterated that the strike action was illegal and carried the potential for undue hardships and civil disturbances in the country. It concluded by condemning the unions’ disregard for the court order, emphasizing that their decision openly flouted the principles of rule of law and respect for the judiciary.
The government’s firm stance against the planned strike reflects its commitment to maintaining law and order while calling for peaceful resolution of conflicts.
