Happening Now: National Assembly Complex Shut Down as Organised Labour Unions Protest Nationwide

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have closed the doors of the National Assembly complex in Abuja on the second day of their nationwide strike. By 9:00 am on Wednesday, the complex’s gates were securely locked, following disruptions initiated by the unions the previous day.

While the National Assembly management is yet to issue a statement on the situation, the gates to the Presidential villa, linked to the legislative complex, remained accessible for security personnel and essential workers.

Journalists, legislative aides, and members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), affiliated with the organised labour, found themselves barred from entry during this closure. Tuesday witnessed a partial strike, leaving motorists and staff stranded for several hours.

The NLC had outlined six demands as prerequisites for considering an end to the ongoing nationwide strike, ignited by the brutal attack on its National President, Joe Ajaero, and other leaders in Owerri, Imo State.

Among the NLC’s demands is the arrest and prosecution of Mr. Chinasa Nwaneri, the Special Adviser on Special Duties to Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, accused by the labour union of leading the attack against workers on November 7 during the governorship election in the state. Additionally, the NLC calls for the arrest, prosecution, and dismissal of police officers involved in the attack on Ajaero, as well as the apprehension and prosecution of all thugs responsible for the assault in Imo State. The unions are resolute in their stance until justice is served in these matters.