Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja , Nigeria
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have jointly issued a stern ultimatum to the federal government, giving them 14 days to commence implementing policies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of recent economic decisions.
Citizens across Nigeria have been vocal about the repercussions of policies such as the removal of petrol subsidies and the devaluation of the naira, which have resulted in skyrocketing prices of essential goods and services.
The spokesman said
“These agreements which were reached with the federal government were focused on addressing the massive suffering and the general harsh socioeconomic consequences of the ill-conceived and ill-executed IMF/World Bank induced hike in the price of PMS and the Devaluation of the Naira,” the NLC said.
“Constrained by this development and recognizing the urgency of the situation and the imperative of ensuring the protection and defence of the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers and citizens, the NLC and TUC hereby issue a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, to honour their part of the understanding within 14 Days from tomorrow,”.
In their statement made available to Truth Live News, the NLC and TUC expressed dismay over the non-implementation of the 16-point agreement reached with the government in October 2023. They highlighted the dire consequences of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank-induced hikes in petrol prices and currency devaluation, leading to widespread hunger, eroded purchasing power, and heightened insecurity.
The unions emphasized the government’s failure to honor various aspects of the agreement, including wage awards, palliative adjustments, and improved access to public utilities. They also condemned government interference in union activities, citing instances of meddling in the affairs of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the illegal proscription of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).
Recognizing the urgency of the situation and the need to protect Nigerian workers and citizens, the NLC and TUC issued a clear warning to the government. They urged prompt action to avoid further hardship, stressing that their patience has worn thin and that silence from the authorities would only exacerbate the crisis.