Following the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) strike in Ebonyi State, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) have directed their members to suspend operations in compliance with the NLC’s directive. This move is part of a broader effort to protest the state government’s threat to dismiss workers striking over the non-implementation of the N70,000 new National Minimum Wage.
Other essential sectors are also expected to join the strike to pressure the government. NLC President Joe Ajaero issued a directive on Monday, calling on private sector unions to support the striking public workers. He criticized Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for threatening to sack the workers, urging all union leaders in the state to ensure full compliance with the directive.
Similarly, NUEE, through a circular by Acting General Secretary Dominic Igwebike, instructed members in several states, including Ebonyi, to commence industrial action. The aim is to compel state governments to implement the new minimum wage. NUEE urged its chapter executives to mobilize members and ensure strict adherence to the directive.
The NLC condemned Governor Nwifuru’s threat as irresponsible, emphasizing that the strike resulted from failed negotiations and warnings about implementing the minimum wage law. Ajaero highlighted that strikes are a lawful response to unresolved grievances, describing the governor’s actions as unreasonable and counterproductive.
In its statement, the NLC reiterated its commitment to sustaining the strike until the governor complies with the law and implements the minimum wage. It also warned of additional measures to escalate the action if necessary.
