The State House has expressed profound disappointment over the decision by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to commence a strike action, despite a restraining order issued by Justice Benedict Backwash Kanyip of the National Industrial Court.
A recent press statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy accuses the NLC and TUC of pursuing an unjustified and ego-driven course of action, characterizing it as an attempt to pressure the government.
“The root cause of this disapproval lies in the involvement of NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, whose personal matter resulted in an assault in Owerri as he was allegedly planning to incite workers in Imo State into an unnecessary strike.”
While condemning any form of violence against Nigerian citizens, regardless of their social and economic status, the State House highlights that an investigation into Mr. Ajaero’s assault has been ordered by the Inspector General of Police.
Additionally, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, where the incident occurred, has been transferred out of the state.
The State House firmly emphasizes that calling for a national strike over a personal matter, especially in defiance of a court order, constitutes an abuse of privilege. It stresses that power at any level should be utilized to promote collective progress and advance national interests, rather than settling personal scores.
The press statement laments the disregard for the court order and disrespect for the judiciary exhibited by the organized Labour, stating that it contradicts the historical stance of the labor movement as a champion of the rule of law.
The strike is labeled as illegal, immoral, unjustifiable, and irresponsible, with accusations that it was designed with a hidden agenda to cause undue hardship and civil disturbance in the country.
As the nation grapples with economic and social challenges, the State House underscores the importance of safeguarding national interests and discourages actions that could exacerbate these challenges for personal gain.
