The Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Simon Lalong, has revealed that plans are underway to avert the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) nationwide indefinite strike action.
Goldennewsng reported that the organised Labour Unions reached a decision to go on strike on October 3 on Tuesday after the failure of the Federal Government to implement policies to alleviate the sufferings of Nigerians.
The organised labour unions had made demands from the Federal Government following the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit.
Among other things, the NLC and the TUC are asking for wage awards, implementation of palliatives, tax exemptions and allowances to public sector workers and a review of the minimum wage.
Reacting to the NLC and TUC’s announcement, the spokesperson for the Labour Ministry, Olajide Oshundun, on Wednesday, said FG would meet with the union to avert the strike, stressing that the country’s economy is too fragile for a nationwide shutdown.
Oshundun said President Bola Tinubu’s pronouncement during the October 1 Independence Day broadcast is expected to unveil a palliative package for workers.
He added that the Labour Ministry is also working on meeting the NLC and TUC demand, which focuses on wage awards.
He said, “We will avert the strike. We got the news of their intention to go on strike. They need to be rest assured that there will be a pronouncement in the October 1 speech of Mr. President for Nigerian workers.
“The ministry is working assiduously to meet with the second aspect of the demand which focuses on the wage award. We have already secured the release of the NURTW factional chairman.”
