Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Michael Ovat
Published on 2024-02-28 21:21:15
Anambra State Chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) recently made the decision to suspend a two-day hunger protest that was initiated to address the concerns of common Nigerians and call for government intervention to alleviate their sufferings. The State Chairman of NLC, Comrade Humphrey Nwafor, held a press briefing in Awka on Wednesday to announce the suspension of the protest. This decision was in compliance with the directive from the National Executive Committee of the Congress to halt the protest for a period of three weeks.
Comrade Nwafor emphasized that the three-week grace period was intended to provide the federal government with an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to addressing not only the 14-point demand presented by the NLC but also the overall welfare and working conditions of employees in the state. If the government fails to meet the demands of the workers within the stipulated timeline, the NLC would have no choice but to consider resorting to a full-scale strike as a last measure.
The demands put forth by the National Leadership of the NLC encompass a range of critical issues, including the mitigation of hardships experienced by the general population, ensuring food security, abolishing the collection of levies and fees, and facilitating easier access for citizens to convert their vehicles from petrol to compressed natural gas (CNG). Additionally, the demands include the elimination of Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential consumer goods, expediting the conclusion of National Minimum Wage negotiations, directing all states to promptly settle outstanding wages, allowances, gratuities, and pensions, as well as ensuring the effective monitoring and supervision of intervention funds to reach those in need.
The briefing session was also attended by the State leadership of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), led by the state chairman, Comrade Chikwelu Adigwe, demonstrating solidarity and support for the NLC’s advocacy efforts. The collaborative efforts of various labour unions underscore the importance of a united front in addressing the concerns of workers and advocating for improved working conditions and welfare.
As the NLC grants the government a three-week grace period to consider and act on their demands, the stakeholders remain steadfast in their commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of the Nigerian workforce. The decision to suspend the hunger protest reflects a strategic approach aimed at fostering dialogue and engagement with the government to seek meaningful and sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by the labour force. Ultimately, the NLC remains resolute in its dedication to advocating for the rights and interests of workers across the nation.
Read the original article on Nigerian Tribune
