Toba Owojaiye reportingÂ
Imo State, Nigeria
In a significant development, all banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions in Imo State have received a circular demanding the withdrawal of services from their workers, effective November 8, 2023.
This directive comes as a response to the recent alleged brutalization and mistreatment of Comrade Joe Ajaero, the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and others who were exercising their right to protest against the anti-labor policies of the Imo State Governor.
The circular, issued by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), reflects the collective outrage of the labor unions over what they perceive as an abuse of power and insensitivity to the plight of workers in Imo State. The Imo State government’s actions have sparked a series of events that have culminated in this state-wide call for a service withdrawal.
This action aims to register the labor unions’ displeasure with the recent events, where their leaders were reportedly subjected to “barbaric brutalization” while advocating for the rights of workers. It is a clear statement against what they view as a flagrant disregard for the fundamental rights of workers and the well-being of the general populace in Imo State.
The circular also highlights the responsibility of the organized labor movement and Civil Society Coalition to protect the rights of Nigerian workers and the citizens of Imo State against any arbitrary use of power to suppress these rights.
The spokesperson said “The organized labor movement, along with Civil Society Coalition, bears the responsibility of protecting the rights of Nigerian workers and the citizens of Imo State against the misuse of power.
Banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions are strongly advised not to hinder their workers in Imo State from participating in this directive. Monitoring teams will ensure compliance, and your cooperation in this crucial matter is highly appreciated.”
The affected financial institutions, including banks and insurance companies, have been strongly advised not to obstruct or inhibit their employees in Imo State from participating in the service withdrawal directive. The labor unions have also emphasized that monitoring teams will be deployed to ensure compliance.
The significance of this development extends beyond labor unions. It points to a growing concern over workers’ rights and the government’s role in protecting and respecting these rights.
The actions of both labor unions and the government in the coming days will determine the trajectory of labor relations and public sentiment in Imo State.
Imo State finds itself at a critical juncture as workers prepare to withhold their services, raising questions about labor rights, government actions, and the broader social implications of this protest.
All eyes are now on Imo State as the labor unrest unfolds, and its impact on the state’s economy and society becomes increasingly apparent.
Elections hold this Saturday in Imo state and banking services are crucial to its smooth running.
