Federal workers’ union backs NLC on nationwide strike
The Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU) supports NLC’s strike proposed to be held nationwide from this Monday.
NCSU’s general secretary Yahaya Idris Ndako told the Peoples Gazette the union is committed to NLC’s plan “from top to bottom”.
NCSU comprises workers in the federal civil service.
The Buhari government has been trying to halt the proposed strike. Attorney-General Abubakar Malami initiated litigation at the national industrial court in Abuja last week, and the court ordered labour to suspend its proposed strike.
Mr. Ndako described the court’s order as “black market court injunctions”. He said members of his unions and other workers under the NLC have a constitutional right to protest, and that this strike will be for exercising that constitutional right.
Nigeria’s constitution guarantees all Nigerians the right to peaceful assembly.
NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are organising a strike to protest against the recent increase in petrol and electricity prices. These two top unions want the price changes reversed.
The NCSU executive told the Peoples Gazette that the strike would be non-violent.
“The only way it can escalate is if the government uses the police or the army,” Mr. Ndako said.
In 2012 the Jonathan government used the army to put down the Occupy Nigeria protests, which featured a nationwide labour strike backed by other civil society groups.
Current president Muhammadu Buhari opposed cutting petrol subsidies at that time, describing it as “nonsense”.
He is quoted to have said, “[Petrol subsidy removal] is nonsense and an attempt by a clique with the PDP-led federal government to siphon the proceeds to be realized from the removal of oil subsidy”.
Now, NLC is again receiving support from major affiliates for its proposed action. Four aviation unions are among those who have declared support.
Mr. Ndako said, “Everybody at the federal level supports the strike action by the NLC.”
A nationwide strike backed by key affiliates could shut down parts of the economy, and federal civil service workers staying away from work could disrupt public services.
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Africa
Protests rock Gambia over prolonged blackout amid Barrow’s third-term bid
Protesters shouted, “Barrow must go!” as plumes of smoke filled the air around capital Banjul.
Economy
Oil, MSME investment key to sustaining GDP growth, say economists
Economists have urged the federal government to adopt measures that will increase crude oil production and provide more support for the micro, small and medium enterprises sector.
World
Singapore increases monthly allowances of parliament members, others
The changes follow recommendations by an independent committee reviewing the salary framework for political appointment holders and MPs.
Health
WHO warns smoking can reduce fertility
Second-hand tobacco smoke might increase infertility risks, particularly among women, who might face a lower chance of conceiving during each menstrual cycle.
Health
Abia Health Board: Gov Otti petitioned over unpaid 20 months’ salaries
Bamachy Onyemachi, director of medical services at Abia Health Management Board, petitioned Governor Alex Otti to intervene on his behalf over salaries withheld for over 20 months.
States
Suspected drug peddler nabbed in Delta, illicit drugs recovered
The commissioner urged members of the public to provide useful information that could assist the police in preventing and fighting crime across the state.
