Notice of strike issued by NLC in contempt of court order — FG

The federal government of Nigeria has stated that the notice of strike action issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) was a violation of the order issued by the National Industrial Court. According to the statement made by the solicitor-general of the federation and permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, B.E. Jedy-Agba, on June 5, 2023, the court granted an order restraining the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) from going on any form of industrial action until the pending Motion on Notice is heard and determined.

The notice of strike action by the NLC was in response to various issues, including the removal of fuel subsidy, hike in petrol prices, and the resulting increase in the cost of living. However, the federal government points out that these very issues are the subject of the ongoing court case (SUIT NO: NICN/ABJ/158/2023 – FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA & ANOR V. NIGERIAN LABOUR CONGRESS & ANOR) before the National Industrial Court.

The government expressed concern that the NLC’s decision to issue another strike notice is inconsistent with the authority of the court, especially since the NLC has submitted to the court’s jurisdiction and is being represented by a reputable law firm. The government urges the NLC to allow the court to perform its constitutional role and not resort to self-help or undermine the court’s orders.

Additionally, the government highlights that both federal and state governments are engaging with stakeholders to address the issues related to the removal of fuel subsidy and petrol price increment. The government believes that negotiation is a more suitable approach to resolving these matters rather than resorting to a strike action.

In conclusion, the government calls on the NLC to adhere to the principles of lis pendis (pending legal action) and the rule of law, and urges them to explore negotiations to avoid any adverse consequences for Nigerian workers and the nation’s economy.