The strike follows the NLC's decision to forego a meeting with the Federal Government on this issue. Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, voiced concerns that the strike would exacerbate the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians, urging the NLC to reconsider.
The NLC had previously announced the warning strike as a protest against widespread suffering and impoverishment across Nigeria. The organization threatened to stage a complete and indefinite shutdown of the nation's economy within 14 working days or 21 days after the warning strike if the government did not address the prevailing hardships.
While the NLC leadership initially intended to meet with Minister Lalong, they decided against it following his alleged castigation of labour leaders during a media briefing just hours before the scheduled meeting. The NLC leaders believed that the minister's comments threatened possible arrests, prompting them to avoid the meeting.
The Federal Government expressed its readiness to engage in negotiations at the Ministry of Labour and Employment's headquarters. However, the NLC failed to attend.
Minister Lalong clarified that the ministry had not received any formal communication from the NLC regarding the planned warning strike. He also emphasized the government's commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Nigerian citizens.
In response to these developments, the NLC remained resolute in its decision to proceed with the strike, asserting that it would uphold its commitment to addressing the suffering endured by the Nigerian populace.
The NLC accused the government of pursuing policies that further exacerbated the citizens' difficulties. The organization affirmed its dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians despite the hurdles presented by government decisions.
