Strike: Details of FG’s meeting with Organized Labour revealed
The ongoing nationwide strike in Nigeria by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) may soon come to an end after a successful 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, held talks with the striking unions.
This meeting was prompted by the organized labour’s nationwide strike, which was declared following the assault on NLC President, Joe Ajaero, in Owerri, Imo State on November 1.
The labor unions are demanding the apprehension and prosecution of the suspected political thugs responsible for the attack, as well as protesting against unpaid salaries.
Since the strike began on Tuesday, it has severely impacted economic activities in some parts of the country.
Speaking with journalists at the State House shortly after the meeting with the labour leaders, the Minister of Labour said the meeting was fruitful.
He said, “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.”
Also speaking, TUC President Comrade Festus Osifo said the Federal Government made several appeals and promises which may lead to the suspension of the strike.
He 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 apprehend.
“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.”
