Banks, Electricity Workers Join Nationwide Strike Over Assault On NLC President

Several organizations have rallied in support of the nationwide strike called by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).

KanyiDaily recalls that the NLC and TUC had ordered a nationwide strike on Monday midnight, November 13, due to the assault and mistreatment of NLC President Joe Ajaero in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1, along with other unresolved labor-related concerns.

Despite a restraining order issued by the national industrial court in Owerri and the federal government’s order prohibiting the unions from striking, the labour unions remained steadfast in their decision to embark on a nationwide strike.

Speaking with reporters on Monday, TUC President, Festus Osifo emphasized that the strike would persist until government entities at all levels fulfill their responsibilities.

The NLC shared circulars on Facebook announcing the participation of various unions, saying “For the union makes us strong, solidarity forever, we want justice now!!!!.’

The unions that have joined the strike include National Union of Electricity Employees, Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE), Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP), National Union of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Union of Railway Workers.

Others include National Union of Postal and Telecommunication Employees, National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), and Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees.

KanyiDaily recalls that the National Assembly complex was also shut down by workers, leading to restricted access and stranding both cars and individuals.