Nigeria is once again at a standstill due to the recent indefinite strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
This strike was commenced as an expression of dissatisfaction over the Labour leader, Joe Ajaero’s ordeals in Imo state recently and also the alleged maltreatment of workers in the state.
The NLC described Ajaero’s treatment as ‘attempted murder’.
However, a strike at this moment is devastating to our economy and national development.
The Labour Congress has outlined its demands. Asking for the arrest and prosecution of Chinasa Nwaneri, an aide to the Governor of Imo state and also a dismissal of all police officers involved in the alleged brutalization of their leader.
It is also important to note that there was a court order banning the NLC from assembling and protesting in Imo. The same NLC asking for justice, disobeyed the court order.
To what end are these demands?
This rationale is not a convenient one holistically. This strike is not in the interest of the Nigerian workers and the citizenry. In fighting for justice, sentiments and political affiliations should be out-rightly disregarded.
Firstly, we need to sort out the issues with the Nigerian workforce.
Currently, every Nigerian worker is going through a hard time due to inflation, hike in tariffs and other inadequacies.
Nigeria is at a precarious situation. Citizens are lamenting constantly. President Tinubu as a candidate with a financial background had payed enough attention to the country’s economic profile and had promised a positive change. It is in the our interest not to worsen the situation of our dear country.
The NLC should think critically and examine the reality. They initially demanded for an increase of salaries and minimum wage. These are more meaningful demands.
Seeking for the arrest and prosecution of individuals without following due process is a fallacy or rather just daydreaming.
It is obvious that the working conditions across the nation is insufficient but we can’t add more fire to what is already burning.
A strike would also affect the educational sector. After numerous strikes in the previous administration, we are here again.
Nigerian students are once again at the receiving end of political gambles and incompetence. The Labour Congress should be more considerate because this strike is not in the interest of the country.
Nigeria is currently trying to regain economic strength and recover from turmoil in other sectors. We do not need an economic halt at this point.
