Plateau workers begin indefinite strike over salaries, others

Workers in Plateau State have commenced an indefinite strike over the failure of the state government to meet their demands.

The action was declared via a notice of strike issued by the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), Plateau State chapter, on Wednesday, May 10.

The notice jointly signed by the Plateau JNC Chairman, Titus Malau, and Secretary, Timothy Gopep, said the strike followed the expiration of four days extension of the earlier seven days ultimatum given to the state government.

They said the ultimatum and the extension were communicated in their letters dated April 19, and May 3, 2023, respectively.

The JNC officials noted that the council held a meeting on May 10, with the Head of Civil Service and the Secretary to the State Government in attendance.

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“It is evidently clear that the government has not shown enough commitment to address the issues as presented in our charter of demands before its tenure expires, as earlier promised.

“However, following a joint meeting between the JNC and Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC)/Trade Union Congress (TUC) leadership, it was resolved that an indefinite strike action be declared.

“The action is imperative since the government reneged in fulfilling its own part of the agreement despite a series of promises.

“We are, therefore, directing all our affiliate unions that strike commenced from midnight of 10th May 2023,” they declared.

The JNC further directed all affiliate unions to adhere strictly and ensure total compliance until workers’ demands are met, warning that any contravention of the directive would attract severe penalties/sanctions.

The workers in Plateau State are battling the state government over unpaid salaries, among many other demands.

The Star