By Chinedu Echianu
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned of possible nationwide industrial action following the breakdown of talks with the Federal Government over outstanding workers’ demands.
The meeting, held on Thursday at the Ministry of Labour in Abuja, ended in a deadlock, with both parties agreeing to reconvene on Tuesday.
In a statement signed by its Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, the NLC says the government delegation arrived without the necessary mandate to negotiate meaningfully on the issues raised by organised labour.
Among the key demands are a reduction in petrol prices to 2024 levels, renegotiation of the national minimum wage, implementation of agreed tax relief measures and compliance with the terms of settlement reached with the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).
Labour is also seeking action on requests submitted by the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council (JPSNC), particularly on peculiar allowances, wage awards and hazard allowances.
According to the NLC, the Minister of Labour requested an adjournment to allow the government to make adequate preparations for the next meeting, including bringing relevant ministers and heads of departments and agencies to the negotiating table.
While reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, the Congress warns that workers’ grievances could not be left unresolved indefinitely.
It says failure to achieve meaningful progress at the next meeting would prompt its relevant organs to determine the next line of action.
The labour body has consequently urged its affiliates, state councils and civil society allies to remain vigilant and begin preparations for possible nationwide action.
However, the NLC appealed to workers and the general public to remain calm, assuring them that it would continue to pursue their interests through legitimate means.
With the next round of talks scheduled for October 27, attention is now on the Federal Government to address the outstanding demands and avert a possible escalation of the dispute.
