The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) are scheduled to engage in discussions with a team representing President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday. The anticipated meeting comes in the wake of the suspension of nationwide protests led by the NLC and TUC over concerns regarding the removal of petrol subsidies and rising living costs.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, disclosed this development during an appearance on a Channels Television programme, Politics Today. Ajaero explained that the decision to suspend the protests was influenced by the intervention of the National Assembly and President Bola Tinubu. However, he mentioned that certain issues have arisen since that time, prompting the need for further discussions.
Ajaero clarified that the Senate pledged to address the matter within a week, and the NLC recently received an invitation to a meeting from the Senate. He also highlighted the NLC’s concern regarding the government’s restructuring initiative team, especially the leadership of the government team. This issue remains unresolved.
The NLC president emphasized that the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) has taken a stance against the industrial court’s and Ministry of Justice’s summon for contempt. Ajaero mentioned that the NEC has given until August 14th for the withdrawal of the contempt summons or face genuine industrial action.
In response to these developments, the Ministry of Justice, through the solicitor general of the federation, has reportedly withdrawn its charges.
The protests were triggered by President Tinubu’s announcement on May 29th regarding the removal of petrol subsidies. This policy change has led to economic challenges for many Nigerians, resulting in increased prices of goods and services.
Last week, the NLC and TUC organized nationwide protests to voice their concerns over the government’s policies, particularly the removal of petrol subsidies. The protests drew participation from Nigerian workers across various state capitals. During the Abuja protest, NLC and TUC leaders engaged with President Tinubu, resulting in a commitment to further discussions and a resolution to call off the protests.
It is expected that the upcoming meeting between the NLC, TUC, and President Tinubu’s team will focus on addressing the concerns raised by the unions and working towards a resolution that addresses the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
