NLC, TUC To Begin Indefinite Strike in October

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) will commence an indefinite nationwide strike to protest the removal of fuel subsidies by the Federal Government. The strike, which will begin on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, is expected to paralyse economic and social activities across the country.

The labour unions announced the strike action at a joint press conference in Abuja on Tuesday after failing to reach an agreement with the government on their demands. The unions had demanded that the government reverse the fuel price hike, which they said had increased the hardship and suffering of Nigerians, especially workers. They also demanded that the government address the issues of insecurity, unemployment, corruption, and poor governance in the country.

The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and the TUC President, Festus Osifo, said the strike was the last resort after exhausting all avenues of dialogue and consultation with the government. They accused the government of being insensitive and indifferent to the plight of the masses and of reneging on its promises to implement the recommendations of the tripartite committee on fuel subsidies.

The labour leaders also called on their state chapters and affiliates to mobilise their members and the public for mass protests and civil disobedience across the country. They vowed to sustain the strike until the government meets their demands and restores the dignity and welfare of Nigerian workers and citizens.

The strike action has been met with mixed reactions from Nigerians, some of whom expressed support and solidarity with the labour unions, while others criticised them for being selfish and unpatriotic. Some Nigerians also expressed concern over the possible impact of the strike on the already fragile economy and security situation in the country.