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Reasons Police Urge Labour to Postpone Planned Strike

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 3rd, 2024.

Reasons Police Urge Labour to Postpone Planned Strike

The Nigeria Police Force has called on organized labour to cancel the planned strike and resume negotiations with the Federal Government. They emphasized that through continued dialogue, a peaceful resolution can be reached, and the strike would only cause unnecessary hardship for Nigerians.

In a statement on Monday, Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi highlighted the importance of avoiding actions that could lead to law and order breakdown. “Considering the Federal Government’s recent declaration that the planned strike is illegal and premature, the Nigeria Police Force sees this as a potential source of increased tension and political instability,” the statement read.

The NPF urged labour to continue discussions within the Tripartite Committee focused on setting a new minimum wage, emphasizing that postponing the strike is crucial to prevent significant public hardship and maintain national stability.

“The Nigeria Police Force assures the public that adequate security measures have been deployed nationwide to ensure citizens can conduct their daily activities without disruption. We encourage the public to stay calm and carry on with their lawful duties while urging organized labour to act responsibly and seek resolution through dialogue and legal channels,” the statement continued.

Despite efforts to avert the strike, including a meeting convened by National Assembly leaders on Sunday night, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) decided to proceed with the industrial action. The meeting, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, included NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC counterpart Festus Osifo.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Osifo said, “The Senate President appealed to us to call off the strike. However, we cannot make that decision here alone. We need to consult with our respective bodies. The strike will proceed as planned while we continue discussions with our members.”

The nationwide strike over minimum wage demands is set to begin today (Monday).