Strike: Students sent home, banks shut in Ondo

Pupils and students of public schools in Akure, the Ondo State capital, were on Tuesday sent home following the directive by the Organised Labour that workers should embark on an indefinite strike.

The Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), at a Joint National Executive Council on Monday, directed all affiliate unions and workers across the country to withdraw their services with effect from 12 midnight on Tuesday.

Scores of public schools pupils and students were seen leaving their school premises for their various homes on Tuesday morning.

Filling stations, however, were open for business in the Ondo State capital.

Although, most offices in the state secretariat, Alagbaka, were opened, workers were not attending to visitors and government business.

Some banks were also opened for business while some have their gates locked.

READ ALSO: Labour Strike: Workers observe partial compliance

Speaking, a bank customer, Wasiu Adeyemi, expressed disappointment in the selective attendance by the banks.

Adeyemi said the banks only allowed those that came for deposit, while those with complaints were not allowed entry.

He said: “I was in the bank this morning and to my surprise, I was not allowed to enter until I told the security man in the bank that I wanted to deposit a cheque of N2 million before I was allowed.”

The TUC Chairman in Ondo State, Clement Fatuase, expressed optimism about the ongoing industrial action.

Fatuase, who explained that the strike was complied with in the state, said other affiliate unions and workers would join the industrial action as it progresses.

He said: “At least today is day one. The compliance is okay. The strike is at least, averagely effective.

“Anyway, we are issuing a press release as regards the strike.”

The Star