The nationwide strike led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) appears likely to conclude soon, following a reportedly “fruitful” meeting between the unions and the Federal Government. Earlier, the Minister of Labour, Simon Bako Lalong, and the Minister of State for Labour, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyeajeocha, engaged in discussions with the striking unions on Wednesday. The meeting took place at the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, who was also present.
The strike was initiated in response to the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1. The organized labour is demanding the arrest and prosecution of the suspected political thugs responsible for the attack, as well as protesting unpaid salaries.
After the meeting, Minister of Labour Simon Bako Lalong spoke with journalists at the State House, expressing that the discussions were fruitful. He disclosed that, following robust deliberations, the labour leaders have agreed to report back to their constituencies and consider suspending the strike.
Lalong stated, “The meeting was in respect to what happened especially in Imo State, and this meeting has heavy security considerations, that is why we took the meeting at the office of the National Security Adviser. All the labour leaders were also here with us. We had a very fruitful discussion. They have also agreed to take it back home to their constituencies so that they can suspend the strike.”
TUC President Comrade Festus Osifo also commented, noting that the Federal Government made appeals and promises during the meeting, suggesting that the strike may be suspended. Osifo said, “We had a robust conversation where a lot of assurances were given in furtherance to the release that was made by the NSA this morning that some people have been apprehended. They made several appeals and promises to us so we said let’s go back and reappraise all the conversations we have had, and we will communicate accordingly.”