Ekiti, on Tuesday, witnessed near total compliance with labour’s nationwide strike order, as many government offices, schools and institutions were deserted, while few workers reported for duty.

The development followed a directive by the Ekiti chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to its members to join the nationwide indefinite strike until further notice.

Correspondents who monitored the strike reported that some public, primary and secondary school students returned home because no teachers were present.

The directive by the state chapter of the NLC was contained in a statement jointly signed by the chairman and secretary, Kolapo Olatunde and Foluso Israel.

NLC said the directive was consequent upon the alleged assault on the president of NLC, Joe Ajaero, among other reasons. It further explained that the decision emanated from the joint National Executive Council of NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

“This is sequel to the recent developments in Imo state that led to the brutalisation and abduction of the national president of the Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero, along with other comrades with him in Imo state to protest the injustice meted out to workers and retirees,” said the statement.

It added, “They were, in Imo, on issues bothering on non-payments of several months of salaries, non-remittance of deductions, arbitrarily declaring some staffs as ‘ghost’ workers amongst other social vices. All State Councils of the Congress have been directed to proceed on an indefinite nationwide strike action, starting from 14th November, 2023, till further notice.

“Subsequently, in a similar directive, the Ekiti State Council of the Congress, arising from a State Administrative Council (SAC) and State Executive Council (SEC), hereby brings to your notice the directives of our National Headquarters.

“Please accept our utmost regard as we appreciate the understanding and cooperation between us always.”

(NAN)