NLC, TUC Call Off Strike following Talks with FG

0
1858

In a significant development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have decided to suspend the planned nationwide strike that was set to commence on Wednesday, June 7.

The decision was reached after a meeting between representatives of the Federal Government and the Organised Labour at the Presidential Villa on Monday evening.

The outcome of the meeting was revealed by Femi Gbajabiamila, the Speaker of the House of Representatives and newly appointed Chief of Staff to the President.

 

Gbajabiamila announced that an agreement had been reached between the NLC, TUC, and a team established by President Bola Tinubu to address concerns arising from the removal of fuel subsidies.

Under the terms of the agreement, a joint committee will be established by the Federal Government, TUC, and NLC to review proposals for wage increases or awards. Additionally, a framework and timeline for implementation will be established.

Other key points of the agreement include a review of the World Bank Financed Cash transfer scheme to include low-income earners, the revival of the CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) conversion program, and the resolution of issues in the education sector.

Furthermore, the Labour centers and the Federal Government will collaborate to establish a framework for the completion of the nation’s refineries, the maintenance of roads, and the expansion of rail networks across the country.

All remaining demands presented by the TUC to the Federal Government will be evaluated by the joint committee.

Consequently, the NLC has agreed to suspend its notice of strike immediately to allow for further consultations.

The TUC and NLC will continue their ongoing engagements with the Federal Government to ensure the implementation of the resolutions discussed.

A meeting between the Labour centers and the Federal Government is scheduled for June 19, 2023, to finalize an implementation framework.

Earlier on Monday, the National Industrial Court issued a restraining order against the Organised Labour, preventing them from embarking on any form of strike.

The court’s ruling came in response to an ex-parte application filed by the Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The defendants, namely the TUC and NLC, are now required to adhere to the court’s order and have been served with the necessary documents related to the case.

The hearing for the motion of notice is set to take place on June 19, 2023, according to the court document.

This latest development follows a period of intense negotiations and legal proceedings, bringing hope for a resolution to the issues at hand and providing a potential path forward for all parties involved.