The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to postpone its planned nationwide protest.
In a letter directed to Femi Falana, counsel for the NLC, the AGF highlighted a standing order prohibiting the union from initiating any industrial action.
Additionally, the Attorney General noted that the issues and objectives raised by the NLC are central to an ongoing case before the National Industrial Court.
The letter emphasized that resorting to public protests on these matters would constitute a serious contempt of court and disrespect for the judiciary. Consequently, the proposed nationwide protest violates the existing interim injunctive order.
Furthermore, the AGF indicated that the Federal Government has largely addressed the union’s demands as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the NLC.
He urged Falana to advise his clients against pursuing the planned protests, as it contradicts the spirit of the mediation process leading to the MOU’s execution and undermines the court’s restraining order, potentially disrupting public service, order, and safety.
The NLC had announced its intention to hold a nationwide protest on February 27 and 28, citing concerns over the country’s current economic challenges.