National Economic Council Appeals for Calm and Dialogue Amidst Proposed NLC Strike
The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued an appeal to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to reconsider its proposed industrial action and instead continue engaging in dialogue with their respective state governments. This appeal comes in response to the NLC’s announcement of an indefinite strike starting from October 3rd, 2023.
Reading the council’s resolution on the proposed NLC strike, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State urged for calm and patience, emphasizing the need to consider the potential impact of the strike on the nation’s economy.
Governor Mutfwang stated, “The Council noted the notice by the National Leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress to proceed in an indefinite strike from Oct 3rd, 2023. The Council noted further the implication of this strike on the economy and the nation and thus urges members to continue to engage with the leadership of their respective states and to appeal to them to shelve the action and continue in the department of dialogue with the federal government.”
The governor also revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his upcoming Independence Day speech on October 1st, will appropriately address the demands of the NLC. He stressed the importance of unity and support for the government’s economic reforms during this critical period.
Governor Mutfwang continued, “That is why we are appealing for patience and time to be able to address the concerns of labour. We also believe Mr. President will be addressing labour on 1st of October, and some of the concerns of NLC will be appropriately addressed in the President’s speech.”
He highlighted the federal nature of the country and the need for discussions to continue at the state levels to address specific issues concerning the demands of labour. Dialogue was emphasized as the preferred approach to finding solutions.
Governor Mutfwang expressed genuine concerns about the ability of the country’s leadership to address the demands of the Nigeria Labour Congress and meet the needs of the general populace. He concluded by reiterating the NEC’s appeal for calm and patience, believing that the nation’s leadership is committed to addressing the concerns of both labour and the broader population.
It’s important to note that the NLC and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) declared the impending indefinite strike to draw attention to the hardships faced by Nigerians due to the removal of fuel subsidy.
The situation is evolving, and further developments will be closely monitored.