We won’t warn Tinubu again before we shut down Nigeria – Labour

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has clarified that the suspension of its nationwide strike slated for October 1 is a temporary measure, contingent upon the Nigerian government fulfilling commitments outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the organized labour, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Tommy Etim, the National Deputy President of the TUC, stressed that the suspension is provisional and depends on the administration’s adherence to the conditions specified in the MoU. Etim made this clarification during an interview with a correspondent in Abuja on Saturday.

Furthermore, the labour faction discredited assertions made by governors, who stated they would not honor the demands outlined in the MoU between the Federal Government and organized labour. The governors justified their position by claiming they had already provided relief measures for state civil servants and residents before the MoU was formalized.

Tommy Etim firmly dismissed the governors’ claims, stating, “That is not possible. Anyways, the truth is that we have reached out to our people in the states to meet with them. Letters have also been sent to that effect.”

In terms of progress made with the government, the TUC’s deputy president reiterated that the 30-day ultimatum remains in effect. He emphasized that while the strike was temporarily suspended, it can be reinstated without further notice if the government fails to fulfill its promises. Etim affirmed that the TUC has fulfilled its part and is now awaiting the government’s corresponding actions to honor the conditions specified in the agreement.

The MoU, consisting of a 15-point agreement, was publicly revealed on October 1, 2023.