According to reports from Ajapareporter.com, the Nigeria Police Force has called on organized labour to shelve their planned nationwide strike and return to negotiations with the Federal Government....CONTINUE READING
The appeal comes amidst heightened tensions as labour unions demand an increase in the minimum wage.
In a statement issued on Monday by Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police emphasized that continued dialogue is the best way to resolve the ongoing dispute without causing hardship to Nigerians.
“In light of the Federal Government’s recent declaration that the planned strike is illegal and premature, the Nigeria Police Force views this action as a potential catalyst for increased tension and political instability,” Adejobi said.
The police have expressed concerns that the strike could lead to a breakdown of law and order, urging labour leaders to continue deliberations within the Tripartite Committee, which is currently focused on determining a new minimum wage.
“The NPF hereby urges organised labour to proceed with the ongoing deliberations at the Tripartite Committee, which is focused on determining a new minimum wage, and shelve the planned strike as such decision is essential to prevent untold hardships on members of the public and maintain order and stability within our country,” the statement read.
To ensure public safety, the Nigeria Police Force has made ample deployments across the country.
The public is encouraged to remain calm and go about their lawful activities, while the labour unions are urged to act responsibly and prioritize dialogue and legal avenues to resolve their grievances.
Despite these appeals, the organized labour has announced that the strike will commence as planned today.
The decision follows a failed meeting convened by National Assembly leaders on Sunday night, which was aimed at persuading the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to reconsider their stance.
The meeting, presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, did not achieve its objective.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, TUC President Festus Osifo explained that while the Senate President appealed for the strike to be called off, the labour leaders did not have the authority to make such a decision unilaterally.
“We don’t have the powers to call off the strike action. For now, the strike action will commence, while we discuss with our organs,” Osifo stated.
