Subsidy Removal : NLC, TUC issue 14-day strike notice to Federal Govt

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its counterpart, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), have jointly given a 14-day nationwide strike notice to the Federal Government.

This action stems from the government’s failure to implement agreements reached on October 2, 2023, after the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, under the leadership of Bola Tinubu.

Leaders of the NLC and TUC expressed dismay over the government’s apparent disregard for the widespread suffering and hardship experienced by citizens despite efforts by organized labor to maintain industrial peace.

The agreements reached in October 2023 aimed to address the severe socioeconomic consequences resulting from the increase in PMS prices and the devaluation of the naira, which were influenced by IMF/World Bank policies.

The unions emphasized the adverse effects of these policies on the masses and workers in Nigeria.

Despite their reluctance to resort to strike action, the unions felt compelled to take this step due to the persistent neglect of citizens’ welfare and the significant hardships faced by workers.

Effective February 9, the NLC and TUC issued a firm ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the fulfillment of its commitments within 14 days.

Among these commitments is the implementation of a N35,000 wage award for civil servants, which remains unpaid to date.