Nationwide strike: The Nigerian Presidency has condemned the decision of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to initiate a nationwide strike in response to the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero. The Presidency labeled the strike as unwarranted and accused the unions of attempting to blackmail the government.
Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed the government’s confusion over why the entire country, with a population of over 200 million people, should be punished over a personal matter involving the NLC President. While acknowledging that the government does not condone violence or assault, Onanuga highlighted that the Inspector General of Police has ordered an investigation into the incident, and the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, where the assault occurred, has been transferred.
The statement from the presidential aide criticized the unions for calling a national strike despite a court order against such industrial action, deeming it an abuse of privilege. Onanuga emphasized that power should not be used to settle personal scores but rather to promote collective progress and advance national interests. The planned strike was characterized as immoral, unjustifiable, and irresponsible.
Additionally, the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) advised the unions against the strike, urging them to respect the existing court order prohibiting the planned industrial action.
The statement concluded by expressing dismay at the unions’ decision to proceed with the strike despite a restraining order issued by Justice Benedict Backwash Kanyip of the National Industrial Court. The nationwide strike taken by unions’ actions was criticized as an “ego-tripping move” and an unjust attempt to hold the entire nation hostage over a personal matter involving a labor leader. Source thedailycourierng news