NLC, TUC start nationwide indefinite strike Oct 3… 

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, yesterday, declared indefinite strike starting from October 3 to force the federal government to address excruciating suffering and hardship across the country, occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy.

The resolution came, despite promises by the federal government to conclude wage award, which was a major demand by the labour leaders, to the two labour centres. 

In a joint communiqué after both Labour centres held separate emergency National Executive Council, NEC, meetings, leaders of the two bodies urged Nigerians to brace up for a long strike and use between yesterday and next Monday to stockpile foodstuff and other necessities.

Though the Trade Union Congress, TUC, did not participate in the two-day warning strike embarked upon by the NLC two weeks ago, it has, however, resolved to team up with the NLC on the indefinite strike.

The communiqué, jointly read by NLC and TUC Presidents, Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, respectively, at the Labour House, Abuja, directed state councils and affiliates of the two centres to step up mobilization of members and allies for total strike.

They said the indefinite strike is a result of the perceived insensitivity of government to the plights of workers and other Nigerians, following the petrol subsidy removal and continuous demonstration of unwillingness and complete lack of initiative to address the fall-outs of the removal and other harsh economic policies.