Trade Union Congress disagrees with NLC on nationwide protest

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1 year ago

February 22, 2024

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The Trade Union Congress has accused the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) of calling for a nationwide protest without due consultation.

In a letter addressed to the President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, the TUC said its sister body should stop making unilateral decisions on issues of interest to the two organisations.

The letter signed by Secretary-General of TUC, Nuhu Toro and dated February 19, read;

“We convey compliments from the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), particularly the President of Congress, Comrade (Engr) Festus Osifo, and write to convey our displeasure on the above subject matter.

“We are writing to address a matter of mutual concern and our disappointment regarding the recent unilateral issuance of two days’ national protest with specified dates.

“You will recall that both centres issued a joint statement with a 14-day ultimatum to the federal government. This ultimatum will expire on Thursday 22nd of February and the right thing to do was for both leaderships to review the situation and agree on the way forward preceding convening our respective NEC meetings.

“Our respective NEC is made up of highly intelligent individuals, who are desirous that we both work together always in our collective interest, even if we didn’t anticipate our NEC decision meetings, it is our responsibility as leaders to harmonize our positions before jointly going to the press.

“It was our understanding that decisions of such magnitude would be made collectively, ensuring that the interests and perspectives of all parties involved are duly considered.

“This is the way other leaders of both centers have worked together from the time of SECSCAN to when TUC was formally registered. It is important to stress that this is the third time such a unilateral declaration is happening under your leadership, we are therefore constrained to formally put this on record as various discussions, communications and interventions have failed. First and second time could pass as human error but a third time would in our opinion translate to an intentional act to undermine us.

“Again, recall we requested that both congresses should jointly develop an MOU that will clearly guide and define our collaboration on issues of mutual interest to avoid situations like this, which has not seen the light of the day.

“Comrade President, also note that we are not averse to the issuance of your resolution because our members equally feel the pain, even if it’s a weeklong national strike, but we have a huge problem with the unilateral declaration for a process we both muted and agreed, because our members are equally concerned about the rising cost of living and not particularly the ultimatum, why can’t we see through the ultimatum that expires within the same period before jointly addressing other issues of mutual concern or at worst consolidate them?

“At best when the NLC conveyed its NEC meeting on the subject of mutual concern, courtesy demands that we ought to have been informed so we can synergise on the way forward and not to jump the gun.

“We cannot be seen to undermine the process of synergy and collaboration between both centers that predates the current leadership of both congresses.

“For the avoidance of doubt, we fully understand that NLC is an independent labour center that has the right to take independent decisions, it is pertinent that when such decisions are taken unilaterally, there is a need to go ahead and implement them unilaterally.

“We wish to postulate that both centers have demonstrated severally that we both can go solo but my comrade President, you will agree with the slogan we couched for this unity that “we are always stronger together”, and that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

“We want you to always remember that we have teeming members that we lead and are answerable to, when such abnormally happens the leadership has the right to defend the sanctity of its congress.

“Recall this same issue of unilateral decision, was what made us stay away from the two days warning strike that you staged in September last year.

“The entire world noticed our collective strength when the governor of Imo state overstepped his bounds, and we rose to the occasion.

“That is the kind of synergy and collaboration that we yearn for and that we strongly believe the Nigerian working people and the downtrodden are looking for from our collaborative efforts of working together.

“As you are aware of our previous discussions that accumulated into a late-night meeting at the NUEE Lodge, Utako last year after the unilateral decision of a two days warning strike and several other interventions which emphasized the importance of mutual respect, collaboration and effective communication in matters affecting workers and the masses.

“Congress was greatly taken aback and dismayed to learn that you addressed the press and announced the dates for the nationwide protest without consulting us. Making arrangements for the press is even an indication that you have an idea of what the outcome of the NEC meeting would be. This action undermines the spirit of solidarity and cooperation that we have worked hard to foster.

“Nonetheless, we wish to state that such unilateral actions are contrary to the principles of our shared understanding and collaboration. To uphold the integrity of our partnership and ensure that the voices of all workers are heard, decisions of this nature must be made through open dialogue and consensus-building.

“We kindly urge you to reconsider your approach and to engage in meaningful consultation with all parties moving forward as we will always do the same when the table turns. By doing so, we can reaffirm our commitment to working together for the betterment of workers’ rights and welfare.”

Nigeria, South Africa strengthen energy ties to curb continental energy deficit

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2 hours ago

April 17, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

Senator Lokpobiri and Minister Gwede Mantashe.

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The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri Ph.D, has emphasized that Africa must begin to look inward for sustainable solutions to its energy challenges.

The minister added that boosting local production capacities while retaining generated resources within the continent is key to long-term energy security.

He made this remarks on Wednesday while receiving a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, led by Hon. Minister Gwede Mantashe, during a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral energy cooperation, enhancing trade, and exploring joint initiatives to tackle Africa’s energy needs.

In his speech, Senator Lokpobiri highlighted the remarkable progress Nigeria has made in recent years, particularly under the #RenewedHope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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“Nigeria has significantly enhanced its local capacity in the oil and gas sector. We are witnessing a new era where indigenous companies are taking ownership by acquiring assets from International Oil Companies that are divesting,” he noted.

The South African delegation’s visit was driven by a strong interest in learning from Nigeria’s oil and gas successes and exploring opportunities for partnership. Hon. Minister Gwede Mantashe praised Nigeria’s advancements and expressed optimism about future collaboration.

“Nigeria’s progress in its energy sector is impressive. We are here to share experiences, learn from each other, and build frameworks that support mutual growth. The goal is to develop strategies that are not only beneficial to our two nations but the African continent at large,” Minister Mantashe stated.

Both parties engaged in extensive discussions centered on developing indigenous capacity, enhancing cross-border trade in energy products, and fostering a robust framework for knowledge exchange.

The ministers agreed that collaboration is essential to unlock Africa’s vast energy potential and to address persistent energy poverty across the continent.

“As we collaborate with South Africa, we are also learning from their experiences. Our shared insights will contribute to increased oil production and more resilient energy systems across Africa,” Senator Lokpobiri added.

“Deepening our ties is vital to creating sustainable, African-led solutions to our energy challenges.”

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to establish working groups focused on joint investments, technology sharing, and regional energy integration. This renewed partnership signals a forward-looking approach to building a stronger, self-reliant African energy landscape.

BREAKING: 8 Killed in Boko Haram IED Attack Along Maiduguri-Damboa Road

Published

3 hours ago

April 17, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

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At least eight people have been confirmed dead after a deadly explosion rocked the Maiduguri-Damboa Road on Saturday. The blast, caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), is believed to have been planted by Boko Haram insurgents.

The tragic incident occurred on a section of the highway that was recently reopened after years of closure due to insurgent activity. The route, which cuts through the notorious Sambisa Forest, has long been considered one of the most dangerous in Borno State.

Eyewitnesses and local sources confirmed the attack, including Maiduguri resident Lawan Maigana, who revealed that both civilians and military personnel were among the casualties.

According to reports from Channels TV, the explosion struck a convoy of vehicles under military escort, transporting passengers from Damboa to Maiduguri.

Speaking on the incident, Maigana said:
“The road to my hometown in Damboa has always been perilous. Over the years, we’ve lost brave soldiers and innocent residents to Boko Haram. Today’s attack claimed eight lives and highlights the urgent need to strengthen security measures. May Allah protect us all and grant peace to the souls of the departed.”

The federal and Borno state governments are yet to issue official statements on the attack at the time of filing this report.

Credit: Umar Audu | April 12, 2025

OPERATION UDO GA CHI – ZERO KIDNAPPING IN ANAMBRA: CP ORUTUGU SETS UP A MONITORING TEAM TO ENSURE OPERATIVES ARE CIVIL AND COMPLIES WITH THE OPERATIONAL ORDER; ALSO THANKS THE STATE GOVERNMENT AND STAKEHOLDERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT AND APPRECIATES THE SACRIFICES OF POLICE AND OTHER SECURITY AGENCIES

Published

14 hours ago

April 16, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

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OPERATION UDO GA CHI – ZERO KIDNAPPING IN ANAMBRA: CP ORUTUGU SETS UP A MONITORING TEAM TO ENSURE OPERATIVES ARE CIVIL AND COMPLIES WITH THE OPERATIONAL ORDER; ALSO THANKS THE STATE GOVERNMENT AND STAKEHOLDERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT AND APPRECIATES THE SACRIFICES OF POLICE AND OTHER SECURITY AGENCIES

Following the launch and deployment of the Joint Security Team to enforce Operation Udo Ga Chi – Zero Kidnapping, few days ago, the Commissioner of Police *CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD.* today 16th April 2025 set up a monitoring team headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Criminal Investigations Department Awka *DCP Mantu Chong mni* to ensure that Officers are civil and are complying with the Operational Order. He can be reached on 07030871026.

The *CP* on behalf of other security agencies expresses gratitude to the State Government and some good-spirited Anambraians for their support. He also appreciates the coordinated approach and sacrifices of the Police and other Security Agencies to nip in the bud serious crimes like Armed robbery, kidnapping, and other related situations, especially within this Easter period and beyond.

The *CP* notes that alongside our strong resolve to fight all forms of violent crimes, the Operations have a window of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and community policing principles where applicable. This will be open for those desirous of taking advantage of such avenues to resolve specific problems and issues.

Anambra Police Command shall continue to review the operations as it progresses and explore strategies to improve safety and security in the State.

In the event of request for any security services, members of the public are encouraged to call the Command Control Room number on 07039194332 or PPRO 08039334002 for a prompt response. The ‘npf rescue me app’ is also available for free download on both Android and Apple IOS, for Android and iPhone users respectively. They can also call the various Area Commanders or DPOs in their various areas of concern as attached, please.