Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has insisted that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliate bodies can proceed with their proposed protest and strike actions.
According to the legal practitioner, the exercise does not translate to contempt of court.
His comments were contained in a letter from the Falana Falana Chambers, solicitors to the NLC, signed by Sam Ogala, titled: “Re- NLC in contempt of Court” and addressed to the permanent secretary/ solicitor-general, Federal Ministry of Justice.
According to him, the decision of Nigerian workers to participate in peaceful rallies was in the interest of the masses and to protest the worsening economic crisis in the country.
“You were reported to have accused the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress of treating the order of the National Industrial Court with contempt.
“Contrary to your unwarranted allegation, the Nigeria Labour Congress does not intend to disobey the ex-parte order of the National Industrial Court.
“And to the effect that ‘the defendants/respondents are hereby restrained from embarking on the planned Industrial Action/or strike of any nature, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice dated June 5’.
