Organised Labour has announced the suspension of the nationwide indefinite strike that commenced on November 14.
The decision to suspend the strike was revealed in a joint statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Ugbaja, the General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Comrade Nuhu Toro, the Secretary-General of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).
The suspension follows the intervention of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the subsequent arrest of individuals responsible for the brutalization of NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, on November 1 in Owerri, Imo state.
The strike had been initiated to address the distressing incident and secure crucial demands from the federal government.
The joint statement read: “Sequel to the emergency joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the NLC and TUC today, the 15th day of November, 2023, in which a thorough review of the offers presented by the federal government through the National Security Adviser during its earlier meeting with the leadership of both centers was made, a resolution was reached to suspend the ongoing nationwide strike, which commenced on the 14th November, 2023.
“This suspension is intended to facilitate further discussions after the federal government had met our crucial demands to address the distressing abduction and brutalization of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and others.
“These incidents occurred at the hands of the Police and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s thugs in Owerri, Imo state, on the 1st day of November, 2023.
“An apology was tendered on behalf of the government by The NSA, who promised to coordinate the investigation. Some of the perpetrators have been arrested, and we were given high assurances that all others will be fished out and prosecuted.
“High-powered investigation is currently being carried out and the leadership of the labour centers will be briefed continuously as progress is being made.
“We extend our commendation and salute to all affiliates and state councils for their unwavering commitment and tenacity, which contributed to the success of the nationwide strike.
“Therefore, all affiliates and State councils of both the NLC and TUC are hereby directed to demobilize, cease any further escalation of the indefinite strike action, and fully resume work tomorrow, Thursday, the 16th day of November, 2023.
“Once again, we convey our appreciation for your cooperation, resilience, and determination in ensuring the success of the indefinite nationwide strike.
“We encourage you to remain vigilant as we await the fulfillment of the remaining agreements.”
