The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has vowed to begin a nationwide strike action, if the government does not apologize over the recent invasion of its secretariat in Abuja.
The NLC, in a statement, condemned the government’s continued silence and failure to meet any of its demands following the invasion, which the union has described as a “declaration of a hybrid war against Congress.”
During a press conference held at Labour House, NLC leadership, represented by Benson Upah, Head of Information and Public Affairs, expressed their frustration over the government’s refusal to apologize for the raid or return the items taken from their headquarters.
The union also rejected the police’s explanation that the raid targeted an “international terrorist” allegedly operating from within the building.
The NLC has made it clear that unless the federal government meets its demands, including an apology and the release of those detained in connection with the protest, the union will have no choice but to call for a nationwide strike.
This move is seen as a direct response to what the NLC describes as “government’s insincerity and blatant disregard for the rights of Nigerian workers.”
The NLC has also criticized the government’s attempts to interfere in the internal affairs of trade unions, particularly its plan to reduce the tenure of union leaders to two years.
The union argued that such actions are unconstitutional and violate international labor conventions.
The union’s leadership has urged the government to engage in meaningful dialogue to address the underlying issues of hunger, poverty, inflation, and insecurity that have led to widespread dissatisfaction across the country.
The NLC said that it would hold the government and the Nigeria Police Force responsible for any further incidents at its headquarters or any harm to its leaders and members.
