NLC, TUC Nationwide Strike Gains Momentum as Bank, Electricity Sectors Join Protest

In a show of solidarity, bank and electricity workers have rallied behind the nationwide strike led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC). The joint effort was sparked by the alleged assault on Joe Ajaero, the NLC President, in Imo State on November 1.

Festus Osifo, President of TUC, emphasized the gravity of their protest during a press briefing on Monday, announcing that the strike would persist until “government at all levels wake up to their responsibilities.”

The reported arrest of Ajaero by armed security operatives in Imo prompted the strike. However, the Imo State Police Command defended their actions, stating that Ajaero was taken into protective custody to prevent a potential mob attack.

Despite legal interventions, including a restraining order from the National Industrial Court in Owerri on November 5 and a separate order from the Federal Government prohibiting the unions from striking, the NLC and TUC have remained resolute.

Circulars expressing support and commitment to the strike have flooded the NLC’s Facebook page. Notable unions joining the cause include the National Union of Electricity Employees, Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE), Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP), National Union of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Nigeria Union of Railway Workers, National Union of Postal and Telecommunication Employees, National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), and the Nigeria Union of Local Government.

As the nation watches, the collective voice of workers from various sectors amplifies their demand for justice and accountability.