“Approaching the conclusion of the 21-day ultimatum issued by the organized labor, the Federal Government expressed confidence in the face of a potential economic shutdown. Despite a deadlock during last Monday’s negotiations regarding the labor unions’ demands concerning the removal of petrol subsidy, the government remains unfazed.
Minister of Labour, Simon Lalong, shared his perspective after a private meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, stating, “I don’t think there is any problem. We don’t have any fears about some of the things they (labor) put on the table and also the suggestions and the package of the Federal Government.”
Earlier, Lalong had met with organized labor in Abuja, but both parties failed to reach a consensus. The Nigerian Labour Congress insisted that the government must meet its demands before the 21-day ultimatum issued on September 1 expires. The union had warned of a potential indefinite labor action if its demands were not addressed, with preparations for a total economic shutdown set to commence upon the ultimatum’s expiration on Friday.
When asked about the possibility of the strike beginning on Thursday, Lalong evaded a definitive response, stating, “I don’t want to say that; I’m not the NLC’s President.” He emphasized that the engagement with labor was conducted in a friendly manner and expressed hope for a positive outcome.”
Efforts by our correspondents to get the National President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, to react were unsuccessful.
Another official of the Labour centre, Hakeem Ambali, also did not reply to inquiries by The PUNCH on the matter.
Among other demands, the NLC and the Trade Union Congress are asking for wage awards, implementation of palliatives, tax exemptions and allowances to public sector workers and a review of the minimum wage.
Though the FG committed to restructuring the framework for engagement with organised Labour on palliatives, the eight-week timeframe set for the conclusion of the process expired in August with no action.
