The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Rivers State have ordered their members and affiliated unions to participate fully in the nationwide strike planned for October 3.
The directive was issued by the State NLC Chairman, Alex Agwanwor, following a joint leadership meeting of both the NLC and the TUC at the NLC Secretariat in Port Harcourt on Friday.
Leading the TUC delegation at the meeting was its Vice Chairman, Christopher Amadi.
Agwanwor stated that unless there are any unforeseen changes, there will be a complete cessation of all activities and operations overseen by members of the NLC and TUC in Rivers State, by the directives from their respective National Executive Councils.
The NLC Chairman emphasized that the planned strike, contrary to certain opinions, is a move towards freeing Nigeria and its workforce from the current economic challenges brought about by the removal of fuel subsidies.
The Labour leader additionally disclosed the formation of a collaborative committee by the NLC and the TUC to oversee adherence to the impending strike within the state.
He cautioned that affiliated unions found in violation will face appropriate disciplinary measures.
In further defense of their intended course of action, Alex Agwanwor asserted that President Bola Tinubu’s removal of the fuel subsidy has not improved the well-being of the workers, as the prices of goods and services continue to skyrocket.
He appealed to Civil Society Groups and the general public to rally behind the planned initiative by the Labour Centres.