The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday ended its two-day warning strike over unmet agreements by the federal government on the consequences of fuel subsidy removal, with a directive to all workers to resume work today.
NLC national president, Comrade Joe Ajaero, who announced the end of the strike in a press statement in Abuja, warned however that the warning strike was not the end of the struggle, but a precursor to a possible indefinite nationwide strike later in the month if the government fails to address its demands.
The labour centre described the warning strike as a success which demonstrated the readiness and resilience of Nigerian workers and citizens to defend their welfare and rights and hold the government accountable to adhere to established statutes.
Ajaero also commended the NLC affiliate unions and state councils for their massive participation in the strike, adding that the message conveyed through the warning strike resonated loudly with the government.
The NLC president said, “As we mark the end of the two-day nationwide warning strike today, at the stroke of midnight, we earnestly call upon you all to gracefully conclude the strike and return to work tomorrow in accordance with our initial agreement.
“We would like to take this moment to express our profound appreciation for your unwavering determination and dedication, which played a pivotal role in the resounding success of this action. Your contributions during this warning strike exemplify your unwavering commitment to our shared cause”.
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The NLC urged its members to get set for an indefinite nationwide industrial action in the event where the government fails to meet the workers’ demands.
Ajaero stated: “In the event that the government fails to provide the appropriate responses to our demands, we encourage you to maintain your steadfast resolve. The same passion and determination that fueled this warning strike will be crucial if we find ourselves compelled to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike.
“Congress is not unmindful of the actions of detractors and fifth columnists but in the face of them all, we remain undaunted and more committed to the defense of Nigerian workers and people at any given time. Our nation deserves better.”
Meanwhile, the NLC in Sokoto State has lauded workers in the state for their full compliance with the 2-day warning strike embarked upon by the congress across the country.
The state NLC chairman, Abdullahi Aliyu, made the commendation when he addressed journalists in Sokoto yesterday.
Aliyu said the organised labour would continue to pursue workers’ entitlement and ensure the present economic hardship the citizens are undergoing is generously addressed.
“Our workers and other affiliates of the NLC have shown dedication and commitment toward ensuring the success of our struggle for better living conditions for all.
“We will continue to remain on our oath to support the government to achieve the desired economy that will provide food on the table of the poor and the general public,” he said.
The chairman also extolled the leadership style of Gov. Ahmed Aliyu, while assuring that the congress will continue to support his dedication and commitment.
“We are sensing a government that is fully inclusive, with a leader who distinguishes himself as a democrat not a ruler.
“This is a leader that before his 100 days in office has shown a great impact on governance, exemplifying the importance of continuity in government,” he added.
Aliyu further noted that if the current commitment is sustained, the state will experience the governor’s desire of making Sokoto a new state.
The labour leader further appreciated the governor for his pledge to initiate measures of supporting the civil servants in the state.
In Enugu, the state Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) said the ongoing warning strike embarked upon by organised labour is responsible for the current power outage being experienced in parts of its franchise.
The company said the NLC two-day warning strike had resulted in the shutdown of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) stations feeding its Injection Substations within some parts of South-East.
The head of corporate communications of EEDC, Emeka Ezeh, made this known in a statement in Enugu yesterday.
Ezeh listed the affected TCN stations to include New Haven, Ohiya, and Egbu Transmission Stations.
According to him, the development affected supply to customers of EEDC under Ogui, Abakpa, Umuahia, Owerri, New Owerri, Orlu, and Mbaise districts, feeding from the affected TCN stations.
“We shall continue to monitor events and provide timely updates as it affects our operations and service to our customers. We are mindful of the inconveniences this situation has caused our esteemed customers and plead for their understanding,” he added.
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