By Lukman Olabiyi
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, has refuted claims that property was damaged during the three-day warning strike embarked upon by workers of the state broadcasting service.
The union, led by its chairman, Adeleye Ajayi, along with some security personnel, conducted an “On-The-Spot-Assessment” of three major broadcasting stations as the strike entered its third day.
This follows statements made by Lagos State Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, who alleged that members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), and the NUJ had destroyed studio doors and other property at the state-owned broadcasting services.
However, after visiting Lagos Television (LTV), Radio Lagos/Eko FM, and Lagos Traffic Radio, the union found that all property remained intact.
NUJ Chairman, Mr. Ajayi, strongly disagreed with the Commissioner’s claims, asserting that the facilities were undamaged. “As responsible unions, we have thoroughly documented the evidence and challenge those with opposing claims to provide their proof,” Ajayi said.
The facility assessment was carried out by union leaders, their members, and officers from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), who have been monitoring the situation throughout the strike.
Ajayi emphasized that spreading misinformation would not help resolve the ongoing dispute.
The union leader also reiterated the workers’ demands for better working conditions, including migration to an Oracle database system, similar to those provided to other state employees. “Our people are not asking for too much. They deserve improved conditions, just like other workers in Lagos State,” he concluded.