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•NLC flays mass sack at KEDC, calls for immediate recall of over 900 workers
From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has kicked against recent policies by the Federal Government, saying they were worsening economic hardship for Nigerian workers and the masses.
In a communique issued after the National Administrative Council (NAC) meeting in Abuja, yesterday, the Congress called on the government to reverse the devaluation of the Naira, stating that it was the root of the recent inflation.
TUC, in the document signed by its National President, Festus Osifo, and Secretary General, Nuhu Toro, also condemned the plan to introduce toll gates on dilapidated federal roads, describing it as an “insult to Nigerians.”
While acknowledging that tolling can generate revenue for road maintenance, the TUC insisted that tolls should only be considered after the roads have been properly rehabilitated.
Similarly, the Congress criticised the proposed 65 percent hike in electricity tariffs, calling it “ill-timed” and an act of “economic oppression” against already struggling Nigerians.
The union noted that despite previous tariff increases, the promised improvements in electricity supply, especially for “Band A” consumers, have not materialised.
More also, TUC rejected the planned 50 percent increase in telecom tariffs, siding with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in condemning the move.
The union argued that such an increment would further strain the finances of Nigerian citizens without addressing the underlying economic issues. The Congress warned that it would mobilise workers, civil society groups and the general public for nationwide protests if the government proceeds with policies that worsen economic hardship.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has backed protesting workers of the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDC).
In a statement by its spokesperson, Benson Upah, the Congress criticised KEDC for what it termed a blatant disregard for due process in the recent mass dismissal of over 900 workers.
The workers’ body called on the management of KEDC to “come off its high horse” and engage in meaningful dialogue, and urged it to unconditionally recall the sacked workers to ensure industrial harmony and the restoration of services within its operational areas.
“This will ensure industrial harmony and restoration of services in its area of jurisdiction.”
“Resorting to self justification in a clear case of a faulty process is neither helpful nor reasonable.
Prolonging this act of aggression clearly runs the risk of a major sympathy action.
“Congress will not hesitate to give the on-going action the needed bite if KEDC management does see the wisdom behind an early truce.
“For a start, we call on all affiliates in Kaduna to join the protest on a solidarity basis,” it said.
