By Milcah Tanimu
The Federal Government has criticized organized labor for the ongoing nationwide strike in response to the alleged assault on Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero. The Attorney-General of the Federation’s office denies Tinubu’s involvement and deems the strike against the country’s interest. While some states like Lagos, Rivers, Kwara, and Bauchi show resistance to the strike, others like Kano, Edo, Delta, and Akwa Ibom comply partially. The dispute arises from conflicting views on the assault incident, with labor leaders justifying the strike and the government urging national progress.
– Special Assistant to the Minister of Justice, Kamarudeen Ogundele, criticizes the timing of the strike, emphasizing the nation’s economic recovery.
– Trade Union Congress President, Festus Osifo, highlights the lack of apology from Imo state Governor Hope Uzodimma for Ajaero’s alleged brutalization.
– Partial compliance is observed in Anambra, Ondo, Kaduna, Borno, and Ogun states, while some states like Lagos, Rivers, Kwara, Bauchi, and others show resistance.
– Essential services like banks, schools, and government offices remain operational in some states, with varying degrees of adherence to the strike directive.
– The NLC and TUC defend the strike, stating that further institutions may be shut down if the government delays addressing their concerns.
– The strike was declared in protest of the alleged brutalization of NLC President Joe Ajaero during a workers’ protest in Imo State on November 1.
– The article includes statements from various state chapters, workers, and union leaders expressing their perspectives on the strike’s impact and necessity.
– The NLC responds to accusations of blackmail by the Presidency, stating that the strike is a response to citizens’ sufferings after the removal of fuel subsidy.
