Labour Declares Nationwide Strike Nov 8 over Assault on NLC President Ajaero

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has declared a nationwide strike that will commence on November 8th following the assault on its President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba Ajaero. This shocking incident has ignited widespread outrage from both the labor union and the general public, leading to a unanimous decision to take action against such a blatant act of violence.

The assault on Ajaero occurred during a protest organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress against recent fuel price increases. The rally was meant to be a peaceful demonstration of the workers’ dissatisfaction with the government’s decision, which has saddled the average Nigerian with a heavier financial burden. Unfortunately, it turned violent when unidentified thugs attacked the protesters, leaving several injured and the NLC president severely beaten.

The attack on Ajaero, who has been a symbol of workers’ rights for many years, has struck a nerve within the Nigerian labor movement. It represents a flagrant disregard for the principles of democracy and freedom of expression that the NLC and its affiliates have tirelessly fought for. This assault paints a worrying picture of the state of society, where standing up for workers’ rights can result in brutal acts of aggression.

In response, the NLC, supported by its sister unions, has decided to escalate its efforts to ensure that justice is served and that Nigerian workers are protected from similar incidents in the future. The nationwide strike scheduled for November 8th is aimed at sending a powerful message to the government and the public that these acts of violence will not be tolerated.

The strike action aims to bring the entire economy to a standstill, affecting major sectors such as transportation, education, and the public sector. It will be a show of solidarity by workers across the nation, demanding justice for Ajaero and seeking comprehensive protection for workers’ rights in Nigeria.

Beyond serving as a warning against violence, the strike is aimed at highlighting the grievances of the labor unions and the larger Nigerian workforce. It seeks to address issues such as the high cost of living, increased fuel prices, inadequate social security, and the need for better working conditions. The assault on Ajaero serves as a stark reminder that the fight for workers’ rights is far from over and must be a priority for the government.

The NLC and its affiliate unions have called on Nigerians to join them in their fight for justice and a fairer society. They emphasize that this is not just about the assault on Ajaero, but a broader struggle for the rights and welfare of all Nigerian workers. Through this nationwide strike, they aim to amplify their voices and demand that the government takes decisive action to protect workers and punish those responsible for the escalation of violence.

Nigeria, like many countries, owes its growth and development to the hard work and resilience of its workers. It is crucial that their rights and well-being are prioritized and protected. The assault on Ajaero represents an attack on the very fabric of Nigerian society and the democratic values it upholds.

As the country braces for the nationwide strike on November 8th, it is a time for reflection on the treatment of workers and the urgent need for reforms. The NLC hopes that this collective action will lead to serious conversations and tangible changes that will safeguard the rights of Nigerian workers and build a more equitable society for all.