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…We’re tired of fruitless meetings, Ajaero
….Insists on release of arrested NURTW members
From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong is currently in a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to avert its planned nation-wide industrial action.
The NLC had embarked on a two-day nationwide warning strike from 5th to 6th of September, protesting the failure of the Nigerian government to proffer lasting solutions to the challenges caused by fuel subsidy removal as well as address the crisis in the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), amongst other demands.
The Congress also threatened to embark on a nationwide indefinite strike if the issues are still not addressed after the warning strike.
Addressing journalists before the closed-door session, the Minister said the meeting was an avenue for constructive dialogue, to enable the government to understand the concerns of the union and work hand in hand with it to find lasting solutions that benefit all Nigerians.
Lalong lamented that the country has in recent times, witnessed teething challenges, marked by industrial actions and unrest that have adversely affected the economy.
However, he stressed that while workers face economic realities, it was important to strike a balance that fosters economic growth and ensures long-term prosperity for the country.
The Minister said: “I appear before you today not just as a representative of the government, but as an advocate for constructive dialogue, aspiring to understand your concerns and working hand in hand to find lasting solutions that benefit all Nigerians.
“I fully acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable role the NLC plays in championing for the rights and welfare of our workers. Your dedication and tireless advocacy have been critical in shaping a fair and inclusive work environment, and ensuring the wellbeing of our workforce. We acknowledge the valid grievances that have fueled the recent labour crisis, and we are committed to addressing them in a just and equitable manner.
“Today, I call upon each one of you to join hands in an open-minded and constructive dialogue, enabling us to bridge any gaps that may exist between the interests of workers and the ultimate goal of driving economic advancement.
“In the spirit of unity and with utmost commitment to the betterment of our nation, let us seize this opportunity to listen and understand one another. Together, let us explore innovative approaches, reimagining strategies that enhance working conditions and worker benefits while nurturing a robust economy.”
On his part, President of NLC, Joe Ajaero said the Congress was tired of engaging with the government without any positive outcomes.
According to him, none of the Congress’s demands have been met so far despite the numerous meetings already held with the past and present administrations.
He further decried the arrest and detention of the leadership of the NURTW whose office he alleged had been taken over by thugs with the assistance of the police and demanded their immediate release.
Ajaero said: “the Nigerian people that are affected are the ones suffering and we have made some demands and discussed with the government on the issue of CNG, the issue of salary of workers, tje issue of cash transfers and the issue of wage awards and among alll these demands, not even one has been addressed and you want us to meet everyday.
“It is not like the issue is not there. At least if anyone had been addressed then we could be patient with the hope that tomorrow, another one would be addressed. And today we meet, tomorrow we meet again. The question is, are these meetings really working?
“Some of us have been in unionism for a long time and our work is not strike but. When you enter into an agreement with us and you refuse to honour the terms of the agreement then it becomes something else.”
“Another issue is the inversion of the office off the NURTW. Under your watch, the trade union office has been violated, the police invaded there and removed the elected officer of that trade union. Someone was killed. As we talk now, the president and General Secretary of that trade union are behind bars. It has never happened anywhere in the world and we are here negotiating. What are we negotiating? Please you need to address this Sir.”
