Strike looms over economic hardship as labour issues ultimatum

Nigerian workers have declared their readiness to embark on nationwide strike over the economic hardship in the country.

They have issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to address the current hardship in the country or face workers’ wrath.

The organised labour declared that widespread hunger is now ravaging millions of Nigerians with workers’ purchasing power significantly eroded.

In a statement jointly signed by the NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, and Mr Festus Osifo, President, Trade Union Congress (TUC), on Thursday, February 8, they urged the Federal Government to implement their 16-point agreement.

The ultimatum begins on February 9.

The NLC and TUC noted that the agreement focused on addressing the general harsh socio-economic consequences of the hike in the price of petrol and the devaluation of the naira.

The labour leaders demanded that everything must be done within the two weeks to avoid a situation where further proper appropriate steps would be taken to protect Nigerian workers and the masses.

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“We call on the Federal Government to honour its commitments without delay. The time for empty promises and excuses has passed.

“The time for action is now. Our patience has worn thin and the situation has become unbearable for workers and masses all over the federation.

“Further silence amounts to committing mass suicide and this remains the only feasible course of action left for us and Nigerians to compel remedial action by government,” they also stated.

The NLC and TUC expressed concern over the non-implementation of the October 2023 agreement.

“In spite of the passage of time, majority of these agreements remain unmet or negligibly addressed, indicating a disregard for the principles of good faith, welfare and rights of Nigerian workers and Nigerians.

“Government’s failure to uphold its end of the bargain is deeply regrettable and unacceptable to the working people and the citizenry.

“Recognising the imperative of ensuring and protecting the rights and dignity of Nigerians, the NLC and TUC hereby issue an ultimatum to the Federal Government to honour its part of the agreement within 14 days.

“The ultimatum begins to count from February 9,” the labour leaders stated.

The Star