OWERRI, Nigeria — The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has instigated a sweeping worker withdrawal in Imo State, alleging an array of “anti-worker practices.”
The call to action was issued on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, following an emergency meeting of the Central Working Committee, CWC, of the NLC and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC.
The directive, lacking specifics but referring to an “unfortunate May Day development in Imo State,” came in a circular from NLC General Secretary Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja.
The memo was sent to all affiliate bodies, urging them to instruct their local councils in Imo State to halt services effective midnight Tuesday.
“Consequently, all affiliates are kindly requested to issue the necessary directives to their state Council in Imo state to embark on a comprehensive withdrawal of their services in the state by Midnight today in compliance with the Joint CWC decision,” the document read.
Despite the cryptic nature of the message, it underscored a tension simmering within the worker community, adding weight to the serious nature of the grievances.
The NLC underscored the importance of the affiliates’ participation in the strike, stating that their involvement was pivotal to the success of their collective objectives. They also assured the workers of their commitment to challenging anti-worker practices nationwide.
“Do remain assured of the vigilance and determination of the Leadership of the Congress to creatively engage all forms of anti-workers practices all over the nation,” the circular stated.
This impending strike represents a significant escalation in labor relations within Imo State, and could potentially have far-reaching impacts across Nigeria’s workforce.
The situation will undoubtedly call for attention and action from the government, businesses, and the broader public as the country grapples with the implications of such a substantial labor disruption.
