The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has criticized the organized labour unions for initiating a nationwide strike starting today (Monday). In a letter dated June 1, 2024, addressed to the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Fagbemi asserted that the strike violates a subsisting National Industrial Court order prohibiting such action.
This comes as a meeting organized by the National Assembly leaders on Sunday night failed to deter the unions from proceeding with the strike. Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas presided over the meeting, which included NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo. Despite the government’s offer to raise the minimum wage to N60,000, the unions insisted on their demand for N494,000, leading to the strike declaration.
Fagbemi’s letter emphasized that the unions had not followed the mandatory 15-day strike notice required by law, making the industrial action premature and unlawful. He also referenced an interim injunction from the National Industrial Court restraining the unions from striking. The AGF urged the unions to resume negotiations with the government, emphasizing the importance of due process.
Minister of State for Labour Nkeiruka Onyejeocha stated that the government’s offer of N60,000 represents a 100% increase and is the maximum feasible amount. She stressed the need for a balanced approach to national expenditures.
Meanwhile, organized labour unions have begun mobilizing their members nationwide, and various sector unions, including those in judiciary, healthcare, and aviation, have confirmed participation in the strike. The government remains open to dialogue, hoping for a resolution to avoid further economic and social disruptions.
