SaharaReporters had reported on Wednesday evening that the organised labour suspended its strike after the National Executive Council of the NLC and the TUC held a joint extraordinary meeting.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have explained in a communiqué why it called off the nationwide strike, saying the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, gave assurances to the unions which would facilitate further discussion.
SaharaReporters had reported on Wednesday evening that the organised labour suspended its strike after the National Executive Council of the NLC and the TUC held a joint extraordinary meeting.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu had invited the labour leaders to his office in Abuja for a meeting in an effort to end the strike declared by the organised labour to protest against the attack and brutalisation of the NLC’s National President, Joe Ajaero in Owerri, Imo State capital, on November 1 by policemen and thugs.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that the NSA had in a statement said that some Ajaero’s attackers had been arrested and that investigation on the matter is ongoing, which he said his office is coordinating.
In its communiqué, the NLC and the TUC said the suspension of the indefinite nationwide strike was sequel to promises made by the Nigerian government through the NSA that other attackers of Ajaero would be fished out and prosecuted.
The unions said, “Sequel to the emergency joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NLC and TUC today, the 15th day of November, 2023 in which a thorough review of the offers presented by the federal government through the National Security Adviser during its earlier meeting with the leadership of both centers was made, a resolution was reached to suspend the ongoing nationwide strike, which commenced on the 14th November, 2023.
“This suspension is intended to facilitate further discussions after the federal government had met our crucial demands to address the distressing abduction and brutalization of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and othersThese incidents occurred at the hands of the Police and Governor Hope Uzodimma's thugs in Owerri, Imo state, on the 1st day of November, 2023.
“An apology was tendered on behalf of the government by The NSAwho promised to coordinate the investigation. Some of the perpetrators have been arrestedand we were given High assurances that all others will be fished out and prosecuted
“High-powered investigation is currently being carried out and the leadership of the labour centers will be briefed continuously as progress is being made.
“We extend our commendation and salute to all affiliates and state councils for their unwavering commitment and tenacity, which contributed to the success of the nationwide strike.
“Therefore, all affiliates and State councils of both the NLC and TUC are hereby directed to demobilise, cease any further escalation of the indefinite strike action, and fully resume work tomorrow, Thursday, the 16th day of November, 2023.
“Once again, we convey our appreciation for your cooperation, resilience, and determination in ensuring the success of the indefinite nationwide strike. We encourage you to remain vigilant as we await the fulfillment of the remaining agreements.”