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Strike: FG Warns Workers of Six-Month Jail Term Risk, If they Embark on Strike

Published by Tope Fakinlede on June 3rd, 2024.

Strike: FG Warns Workers of Six-Month Jail Term Risk, If they Embark on Strike

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), issued a warning on Sunday regarding the legal consequences of striking without proper notice.

Fagbemi highlighted that under Section 18 of the Trade Disputes Act, workers in essential services must provide their employers with 15 days’ notice before ceasing work. Failure to comply could result in a fine or six months’ imprisonment upon conviction.

He emphasized the significance of the 15-day notice, noting that Sections 41 and 42(1)(b) of the Act criminalize non-compliance. Fagbemi also mentioned that the federal government is actively engaging with stakeholders through a tripartite committee to establish a new national minimum wage, and negotiations have not concluded.

Fagbemi pointed out that the proposed strike would violate an order from the National Industrial Court and ongoing mediation efforts related to the issues under the court’s order.

“You may recall the interim injunction issued on June 5, 2023, in suit no: NICN/ABJ/158/2023 — FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA & ANOR vs. NIGERIAN LABOUR CONGRESS & ANOR, which restrained both the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress from initiating any industrial action or strike,” he said.

The government remains committed to resolving worker and citizen welfare issues through negotiation and collective bargaining. Fagbemi urged workers to reconsider the planned strike and return to the negotiation table, with the next meeting date to be announced.

“Opting for a more civil and patriotic approach will allow your Congress to pursue its objectives within legal boundaries and prevent unnecessary hardship on Nigerians, which this proposed strike is likely to cause,” he added.