Presidency Denounces Nationwide Strike: Labels NLC and TUC's Actions 'Unwarranted' Amidst Assault Controversy

 

The Presidency has rebuked the decision of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to initiate a nationwide

strike over the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero, labeling it as unwarranted and an attempt to manipulate the government. Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed bewilderment over the unions' choice to penalize the entire nation of over 200 million people for a personal matter involving the NLC President.

In a statement released on Monday, Onanuga acknowledged the government's stance against violence and assault on any Nigerian citizen, assuring that the Inspector General of Police, Kaode Egbetokun, had ordered an investigation into the assault on Mr. Ajaero. He emphasized that while the government does not tolerate violence, calling for a national strike over a personal issue contradicts a clear court order against any industrial action.

Furthermore, Onanuga condemned the planned strike as immoral, unjustifiable, and irresponsible, asserting that the power at any level should be used to promote collective progress and advance national interest. The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) also advised the unions against the strike, urging them to respect the subsisting court order that restrains them from embarking on the planned industrial action.

Despite these admonitions, both unions called on workers across the country to down tools at midnight as their dispute with the Imo State government escalated to a national level. In response, the AGF's Special Assistant, Kamarudeen Ogundele, reminded the unions of the court order issued on November 10 by the President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Justice B. B. Kanyip. The statement emphasized the unions' obligation to comply with the court order and warned that any action contrary to it would be tantamount to contempt of court.

The Federal Government urged the unions to respect the court order, emphasizing adherence to the rule of law and discouraging any resort to self-help. Workers were reassured that their safety is guaranteed and will be protected within the ambit of the law, urging them to report for duties without fear. The labor unrest stemmed from the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero in Imo State, leading to demands for the resignation of the implicated operatives and subsequent picketing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to press for their demands.