NLC warns of nationwide strike over fuel price increase

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning, indicating that its members are prepared to launch a nationwide strike action without prior notice to the Federal Government if there is another surge in the pump price of fuel while ongoing negotiations remain unresolved and necessary palliatives are not implemented.

Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of NLC, conveyed this message during the ongoing African Alliance of Trade Unions meeting held in Abuja.

Responding to the Registrar of Trade Unions’ advice on labor conduct in safeguarding workers’ interests and the well-being of Nigerians, Ajaero urged the Federal government to rectify “detrimental economic policies that render our wages virtually inadequate.”

Ajaero stressed, “As we gather here today, deliberations are ongoing about raising the pump price of petroleum products. However, the Minister of Labor has consistently sought an injunction from the Minister of Justice to restrain labor from reacting. There are indications of a potential fuel price increase.”

Ajaero continued, “Let me assert this clearly. Nigerian workers will not issue a strike notice. If we have yet to address the repercussions of the previous two fuel pump price hikes and we wake up to news of yet another alteration in fuel prices, we will act.”

He pleaded for the government to reconsider “harmful economic policies that diminish our wages.” Addressing inflation and currency devaluation, he suggested, “By tackling the factors that contribute to inflation and currency devaluation, we could be content with our current situation. If the naira equaled the dollar, we would advocate maintaining the minimum wage at 30,000.”

Ajaero added, “If inflation is brought under control, we would endorse maintaining the status quo. However, inflation is rampant, and according to the National Bureau of Statistics, over 133 million Nigerians are enduring multidimensional poverty. These are the issues that the Government needs to address. If we demand wage hikes prematurely, the ensuing inflation will erode its value.”

Ajaero also commented on recent actions by the Nigerian police, stating, “The Inspector General (IG) of Police is now performing the role of the Ministry of Labour. Such duties encompass addressing both inter and intra-union disputes. This lies beyond the purview of the Inspector General of Police, and the Ministry of Labour should educate the police about their jurisdiction. Should this trend continue, the Ministry of Labour risks becoming obsolete.”

He demanded an apology from the IG of police, citing an incident involving the arrest of the president of the National Union of Road Transport Workers. Ajaero emphasized that cooperation with appropriate authorities is crucial, adding, “We’re ready to collaborate with you, share laughter, and unite in action when necessary.”