By Lukman Olabiyi
Labour unions in Lagos State have told the state government that no amount of intimidation will make workers of the state broadcasting services back out of their three-day warning strike.
The labour unions, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union (RATTAWU), made the remark in response to allegations levelled against them by the state government.
In a statement published on Tuesday, January 14, the state’s Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, accused the unions of obstructing employees of Lagos Television (LTV), Radio Lagos/Eko FM, and Lagos Traffic Radio from performing their duties.
However, the unions fired back, labelling the accusation as an attempt to blackmail them and divert attention from the workers’ legitimate demands.
According to NUJ Lagos State Council Chairman, Adeleye Ajayi, and Assistant Secretary, Olayide Awosanya, the unions are fully aware that some employees were coerced by management to defy the strike.
They described this as intimidation and vowed to resist such acts with full force.
“Workers have the right to protest without fear or intimidation,” the statement read. “Any attempt to blackmail the unions or deny our members the benefits they deserve will be met with strong resistance.”
The strike, which began peacefully on Monday, has drawn significant attention as workers press for fair treatment and benefits comparable to other Lagos State employees.
The unions reaffirmed their commitment to the strike, emphasising that it will continue until their demands are addressed.