As the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) deadline to address the suffering caused by the removal of petrol subsidies expires, the union's leadership is planning to meet next week to decide on when to start an indefinite nationwide strike. Vice President Kashim Shettima has reportedly been in discussions with government officials to avert the strike. The Ministers of Finance and Labour and Employment, along with the Vice President, are reportedly working on a package, including wage awards, to present to the NLC leadership.
The NLC had issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding action on the mass suffering caused by the removal of subsidies within 21 days, with the threat of an indefinite strike if their demands were not met.
It is expected that critical NLC organs will meet next week to determine when and how the strike will commence if the government does not address their demands. While the strike's exact start date remains uncertain, one source suggested that "nothing is impossible."
The government is reportedly making efforts to avert the strike, with discussions focused on potential solutions for workers. However, the NLC has made it clear that they will not engage in talks without tangible packages for workers.
The President's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, is currently out of the country, and no official government response has been provided as of yet.
The NLC's proposed strike arises from the government's removal of petrol subsidies, which has resulted in significant suffering for Nigerian workers and the general population. The NLC accuses the government of neglecting social dialogue and disregarding the impact of the fuel price hike, which has caused immense hardship for the people. The NLC also cites government interference in labor unions as a concern
