Fuel distribution, health, banking, and other essential services nationwide will cease starting today as organized labor commences an indefinite strike over the minimum wage and recent electricity tariff hikes.
In response, the Federal Government swiftly warned the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to halt the proposed indefinite strike, deeming it premature and illegal.
Despite efforts by top government officials like the Senate president, House of Representatives speaker, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief of Staff to the President, Minister of Finance, and others in a meeting with NLC and TUC leaders, the strike could not be averted.
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has instructed various associations like PENGASSAN, ASSBIFI, ASCSN, and others to ensure full compliance in preparation for the strike.
Affiliates of the Nigeria Labour Congress, including NUPENG, NUEE, MWUN, NUBIFIE, and other critical sector unions, have also been directed to ensure total compliance.
The nationwide strike was announced by the labor centers due to the government's failure to finalize a new national minimum wage and reverse the recent electricity tariff increase.
The tripartite committee on the new national minimum wage failed to reach an agreement after several meetings, leading to labor leaders walking out thrice over unsatisfactory offers from the government and the organized private sector.
The negotiations stalled as the government and OPS remained firm on their N60,000 offer, despite labor's demand for N615,000, resulting in the labor negotiating team walking out of the meetings.
