Strike Looms as NLC Ultimatum Nears End: Federal Government Remains Unfazed – As the clock ticks down on the 21-day ultimatum set by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the atmosphere is rife with anticipation. The Federal Government, however, struck a confident tone on Wednesday, downplaying fears of a looming economic paralysis.
A Stalemate in Discussions
Despite earnest discussions on the preceding Monday, a consensus eluded both parties. The contentious issue? The labour union’s staunch demands on the removal of the petrol subsidy. The Minister of Labour, Simon Lalong, after a discreet meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, voiced confidence. He shared, “We don’t have any fears about some of the things they (labour) put on the table and also the suggestions and the package of the Federal Government.”
Lalong’s comments come in the wake of a previously unfruitful meeting with organized labour. The NLC remained steadfast, demanding the Federal Government address its concerns before the expiration of the ultimatum, initiated on September 1.
The Ultimatum and Its Implications
The 21-day ultimatum revolves around the delay in dispersing palliatives. The NLC has ominously hinted at an indefinite labour action if their conditions go unaddressed. With the expiration date set for Friday, the union has declared its readiness to instigate a comprehensive economic shutdown.
In the wake of his discussion with Shettima, Lalong, when quizzed about the impending strike, commented, “As for me, I don’t think there is any problem. We have fully spent time with the Nigerian labour and the posture of the President too is towards the welfare and prosperity for workers.” Despite the looming strike threat, Lalong remained optimistic, emphasizing the cordial nature of their engagements.
However, when pushed for a definitive statement regarding the strike’s commencement, Lalong demurred, saying, “I’m not the NLC’s President.”
NLC’s Silence
Despite attempts to elicit a response from the NLC regarding the situation, both the National President, Joe Ajaero, and another significant figure, Hakeem Ambali, remained unavailable for comment.
The Core Demands
The NLC, in alliance with the Trade Union Congress, has presented a roster of demands. These include the execution of wage awards, the rollout of palliatives, tax exemptions, allowances for public sector workers, and a review of the minimum wage. Even though the Federal Government pledged to restructure the engagement framework concerning palliatives, the eight-week deadline, which ended in August, saw no tangible action.
The impending economic shutdown, if executed, will undoubtedly have profound implications. While the Federal Government appears sanguine, the nation watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that favors all parties involved.