The Senate has issued an urgent plea, requesting that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) reconsider its proposed strike action, warning that the nation could be plunged into extreme hardship if the strike occurs.
Addressing the situation on Monday, the Senate said while it respects the NLC’s right to protest, it is crucial to weigh this against the potential fallout that could significantly affect citizens’ daily lives and livelihoods.
Politics Nigeria recalls that the National Executive Council, NEC, of the NLC endorsed the August 2 nationwide strike and mass protests over the recent hike in the pump price of petrol.
Also, Labour has commenced mass mobilisation before its planned nationwide strike to begin Wednesday to protest the hardship occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal.
Ahead of its meeting with the Federal Government scheduled to be held today (Monday), the NLC said the Tinubu-led administration was playing games with the lives of Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the Senate explained that with the Nigerian economy still reeling from the effects of the global pandemic and the ongoing recovery efforts, a widespread labour strike could further strain the economy, leading to inflation, scarcity of goods and services, and significant inconvenience to the populace.
The Senate also emphasised the legislature’s commitment to engaging in constructive dialogue with the NLC to address grievances.
The upper chamber further called upon other relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Government and private sector representatives, to join in the dialogue with the NLC.
