In a major development, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has decided to suspend the ongoing Nationwide Mass Protest following a closed-door meeting with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
According to a communique signed by Comrade Joe Ajero and Emmanuel Ugboaja, the President and General Secretary of the Congress, the meeting with President Tinubu addressed the widespread suffering and deprivation experienced by Nigerians due to the recent increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
During the meeting, the President made concrete commitments, including an immediate restructuring of the framework for dealing with the PMS price hike, the commencement of production at the Portharcourt Refinery by December, an agreement on wage awards for Nigerian workers, and the unveiling of a workable roadmap to the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) alternative next week.
However, the NLC expressed concern over the federal ministry of Justice’s actions through the National Industrial Court (NICN), which have been seen as attempts to silence the voices of Nigerian workers.
The ministry has served summons on the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to answer to contempt of court charges, despite constitutional provisions and objective realities.
In response to these developments, the NEC-in-Session made several resolutions. They decided to suspend further protests on the Nationwide Mass Protest, committing instead to hold the government accountable and maintain vigilance on its promises.
The NEC also issued strong warnings, stating that if labour leaders are summoned to court through the NICN, a total strike will be initiated across the country.
They demanded an immediate withdrawal of the court summons by the Federal Ministry of Justice before August 11th, 2023. Failure to do so would lead to a nationwide comprehensive strike starting from August 14th, 2023.
The NLC commended the national leadership and state officers for effectively coordinating the Protest. However, they urged all affiliates, State Councils, and civil society allies to remain focused and vigilant.
The decision to suspend the Mass Protest came after a nationwide outcry from Nigerians, who expressed their outrage over the economic hardships facing the country.
The NLC’s actions and resolutions are expected to shape the future course of the ongoing crisis, as the government faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of the Nigerian people.
