The announcement of the suspension came Wednesday night after a meeting with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

Recall that, Ajaero, alongside other labour leaders, had initiated a rally on November 1 in Owerri, Imo State, to protest against the alleged infringement of workers’ rights by the State government.

However, before the rally could gain momentum, Ajaero was arrested by the police and assaulted by political thugs reportedly affiliated with Governor Hope Uzodinma.

This incident fueled the anger of the labour movement, prompting demands for the dismissal and prosecution of the Area Commander responsible for the attack. Consequently, both the NLC and TUC declared a nationwide strike, significantly impacting commercial activities across the country.

Ribadu later intervened, revealing that two suspects linked to Ajaero’s attack had been apprehended.

Following an extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, labour leaders resolved to consider the promises made by the NSA, opting to give him time to coordinate the investigations.

A statement from the General Secretary of Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employee (AUPCTRE), Comrade Sikiru Waheed, confirmed the decision to journalists, announcing the suspension of the ongoing national strike.

The labour movement expressed appreciation for the support received during the industrial action and directed members to resume official duties from Thursday, November 16, 2023.

He said, “Arising from the just-concluded joint NEC session of NLC and TUC to give consideration to the plea of Federal Government at a meeting held today at the office of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the meeting resolved that the ongoing national strike is hereby suspended.

“The labour movement appreciates you all for your commitments towards the success of the industrial action. You are hereby directed to resume your official functions from tomorrow Thursday 16th November, 2023. Thank you.”

The NSA had earlier appealed to the movement to reconsider its decision, condemning the attack on labor leaders in Owerri during their protest.

TUC President Festus Osifo, leading other labor leaders to the NSA’s office, stated that discussions with federal government officials would be communicated to respective organs.