The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Saturday explained why they resolved to suspend the planned nationwide strike over the subsidy removal policy of the Federal Government while commending all its affiliates and state councils for robust solidarity.
The leadership of the Congress said the planned action to force the government reverse its decision was suspended considering the overall interest of the nation’s stability and obedience to rule of law.
The Congress also disclosed that the Federal Government had obtained an order from the National Industrial Court (NIC) restraining the NLC and TUC from embarking on nationwide strike action.
The NLC made the disclosure in a communiqué issued by its President, Mr Joe Ajaero, and General Secretary, Emma Ugboaja at the end of an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Saturday.
The communiqué read: “Taking into account that the Federal Government has procured a court injunction restraining congress from proceeding with the proposed nationwide strike as the NEC-in-session had ordered to begin, Wednesday, June 7, 2023, and recognizing the willingness of government for continuous engagement through dialogue and to offer reasonable palliatives in due course to cushion the effect of its policies, some levels of understanding were reached
“Considering the mood of the socio-polity of the last elections and the need to pursue national stability and, the NEC-in-session also resolved to commend and applaud the diligence of the congress’ leadership in carrying out the assignment given to it by NEC.
‘’It demonstrated to the Federal Government the need to comply with the laws of the land, especially as it concerns obedience to the ruling of courts and their brazen disregard for the 2023 Appropriation Act.
“NEC-in session, therefore, supports and accepts the decision of the leadership of Congress to suspend the proposed strike in compliance with the flawed rulings of the NIC and also allow negotiations to flow freely and enable final agreement during or after June 19, 2023, negotiation round with the Federal Government.
“All affiliates and state councils of Congress are, hereby, directed to suspend further action and mobilization until the outcome of the final negotiations.
‘’The NEC-in-Session commends all affiliates and state councils on their robust mobilization towards a successful nationwide strike and to also remain vigilant in case there is need to continue.”