The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have issued a stern 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, highlighting the non-implementation of the comprehensive 16-point agreement established subsequent to the removal of the petrol subsidy.
In a joint statement signed by Joe Ajaero and Festus Usifo, the leaders of the two labour unions, they expressed profound dismay over the government’s failure to honor the majority of the crucial agreements even after an extended period.
“The majority of these crucial agreements remain unmet or negligibly addressed, indicating a blatant disregard for the principles of good faith, welfare and rights of Nigerian workers and Nigerians”.
The organised labour pointed out that despite the passage of time, the agreements, which were designed to address the extensive suffering and harsh socioeconomic repercussions resulting from the petrol price hike and Naira devaluation, remain largely unmet or inadequately addressed.
These policies have inflicted dire economic consequences on the masses and workers of Nigeria. The labour unions stressed that the situation demands urgent attention and proactive measures from the government to alleviate the hardships faced by the populace.
In response to the government’s inaction, the NLC and TUC have given a strict ultimatum of 14 days, starting from February 9 to February 14, 2024. During this period, they expect the Federal Government to fulfill its obligations as outlined in the agreement.
The unions reiterated their commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of workers and citizens across the country.
“Widespread Hunger is now ravishing millions of Nigerians, with the workers’ purchasing power significantly eroded, while insecurity has assumed an increasing dimension. Nigerians are left wondering where their next meals will come from and what tomorrow might bring.
“The level of panic and anxiety amongst the populace has become nightmarish unfortunately, in the midst of all these, it appears our government is bereft of appropriate measures to ameliorate the huge burden it has foisted on the citizenry.
“We wish to state that these agreements, which encompass a wide range of issues crucial to the well-being of Nigerian masses and workers, have not been honored as pledged by the Federal Government.
“From Wage Awards, Palliative adjustments to improved access to public utilities; to the meddlesomeness in the internal affairs of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the interference by the Lagos State Government in union activities, the case of illegal and unlawful proscription of Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria RTEAN.
“The government’s failure to uphold its end of the bargain is deeply regrettable and unacceptable to the Working people and the citizenry,” the statement reads.
It added: “Constrained by this development and recognizing the urgency of the situation and the imperative of ensuring the protection and defense of the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens, the NLC and TUC hereby issue a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, to honour their part of the understanding within 14 Days from tomorrow, the 9th day of February 2024.”
Labour noted that it is regrettable that it is compelled to resort to such measures, but the persistent neglect of the welfare of citizens and Nigerian workers and the massive hardship leaves it with no choice.
“Therefore, everything must be done within the two weeks to avoid a situation where we may be compelled to take appropriate steps to protect Nigerian workers and masses,” they said.
It called upon the Federal Government to honor its commitments without delay, adding that the time for empty promises and excuses has passed.
“Our patience has worn thin and the situation has become unbearable for workers and masses all over the federation. Further silence amounts to committing mass suicide and this remains the only feasible course of action left for us and Nigerians to -compel remedial action by the government.
“We are committed to this resolve towards salvaging Nigerian workers and masses from the apparent insensitivity and lethargy of those in the corridors of power who are supposed to be the bastion of public trust.”
