NLC gives FG ultimatum, threatens nationwide strike on August 14 over lawsuit

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the Federal Government an ultimatum to withdraw the lawsuit against the organized labour.

The NLC is warning of a potential nationwide strike on August 14, 2023, if the Federal Ministry of Justice fail to withdraw the lawsuit filed against the organized labour.

During the National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, the NLC, as stated by National President Joe Ajaero and National Secretary Emanuel Ugboaja, accused the Ministry of Justice and the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) of acting as “anti-democracy” agents.

Following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, the NLC temporarily suspended its protest. However, the union has sent a strong message, stating that it will not hesitate to initiate a nationwide total strike if the government summons any labour leaders to court through the NICN.

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In their official statement, the NLC further highlighted their resolutions. They are committed to holding the government accountable on its assurances and governance in general, with a fixed deadline of August 19th, 2023, to address issues surrounding the Petroleum price hike based on the President and the National Assembly’s assurances.

The NLC has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the “litigious terrorism” initiated by the Federal Ministry of Justice before the end of work on Friday, August 11th, 2023.

“To go on total strike across the country any day labour leaders are summoned to Court by the government through the NICN; to demand the immediate withdrawal of this litigious terrorism by the Federal Ministry of Justice before the end of work Friday, the 11th of August, 2023.

“To embark on a nationwide comprehensive strike beginning Monday 14th of August, 2023 if this contemptuous Court summons is not withdrawn by whosoever initiated it.”

The NLC has expressed appreciation for the effective coordination of the protest by the national leadership and state officers. They have called on all affiliates, state councils, and civil society allies to remain focused and vigilant, while pausing further action for the time being.

Read the full statement below: