Labour Tells FG: No Warning Before Next Strike

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, indicating that there will be no prior notice before the resumption of the suspended nationwide strike. The TUC emphasized that the suspension of the October 1 nationwide strike was temporary and contingent upon the Federal Government fulfilling the promises outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration and the Organized Labour.

The TUC unequivocally rejected the assertions made by governors, who claimed they would not implement the demands laid out in the MoU between the Federal Government and the organized labour. The governors cited the provision of palliatives for state civil servants and residents before the MoU was signed as their rationale for this stance.

Tommy Etim, the National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress, conveyed these sentiments during an interview in Abuja. He reassured the public that organized labor had already taken steps to engage with people in the states and had dispatched letters to facilitate this process.

The MoU, which was publicly disclosed on October 1, 2023, consists of a 15-point agreement between organized labour and the Federal Government. In response to concerns about the willingness of governors to adhere to the terms of the agreement, Etim maintained that they were actively pursuing dialogue with state officials.

Etim also clarified that the 30-day ultimatum given to the government was still in effect. The suspension of the strike was seen as a temporary gesture, and there is no guarantee of prior warning before resuming it. The TUC has done its part, and they are now waiting for the Federal Government to fulfill their end of the bargain. The situation remains tense, and the labor movement continues to closely monitor the government’s actions.