The Nigerian Federal Government has taken legal action against the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for allegedly violating a court order issued by the National Industrial Court (NIC). According to the government, the labor unions embarked on an industrial action contrary to a June 5, 2023, exparte order issued by the court.
In a “notice of consequences of disobedience to order of court” filed before the NIC in Abuja, the government addressed the notice to key officials of NLC and TUC, including their respective presidents, deputy presidents, and general secretary. The notice, signed by Senior Registrar Balogun Olajide, warns of potential consequences if the court order is not obeyed, including the possibility of being held in contempt and liable for imprisonment.
The order issued by Honourable Justice Y. Anuwe on June 5, 2023, restrains the defendants/respondents (NLC and TUC) from embarking on any planned industrial action or strike pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice dated June 5, 2023. The court has also set June 19, 2023, for the hearing of the Motion on Notice and ordered that all relevant documents be served on the defendants.
The legal action taken by the Federal Government comes as a response to the labor unions’ decision to go on strike despite the court’s order prohibiting such action. The government seeks to enforce the court’s directive and ensure that due legal processes are followed in addressing the labor-related issues.
This development highlights the significance of respecting court orders and adhering to the rule of law. As the legal proceedings continue, stakeholders will closely monitor the situation to determine its potential impact on labor relations and government-labor engagements in Nigeria.
