The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has taken a decisive step towards a nationwide strike, setting it to commence on August 2, 2023.
The move comes as a response to the adverse effects of the removal of fuel subsidy, which has resulted in significant hardship for Nigerians.
Despite a previous court order prohibiting the NLC from striking in June, the congress asserts that it cannot remain passive while the populace continues to suffer.
The situation escalated after the Tinubu administration previously halted the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), leading to tensions between the government and organized labor.
While the government established a committee to engage in dialogue with the organized labor, the NLC and Trade Union Congress officials claim that the committee failed to facilitate meaningful negotiations.
The NLC’s national treasurer, Hakeem Ambali, confirmed the issuance of a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to conclude negotiations with labor or face the consequences of industrial action, The Punch reports.
The NLC’s national president, Joe Ajaero, has yet to release an official statement on the matter or respond to inquiries from the media.
However, it is expected that the public will be informed of further plans shortly. The impending strike may have far-reaching implications if the government fails to meet the ultimatum set by the NLC.