Strike: Labour to resume talks with FG today
A joint press statement signed by NLC Acting Secretary Comrade Owei Lakemfa and TUC’s Secretary General Comrade John Kolawole praised Nigeria’s resolute stand and insistence in struggling for a better country. They said “the Labour Movement and its civil society allies after nationwide consultations have decided that this weekend, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th January, […]
A joint press statement signed by NLC Acting Secretary Comrade Owei Lakemfa and TUC’s Secretary General Comrade John Kolawole praised Nigeria’s resolute stand and insistence in struggling for a better country. They said “the Labour Movement and its civil society allies after nationwide consultations have decided that this weekend, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th January, 2012, will be observed as strike, protest and rally-free days.
“We ask Nigerians to utilize these days to rest, restock and get re-energized for the continuation of the strikes, rallies and protests from Monday 16th January, 2012.”
Speaking on the level of discussions with government the press statement said “the NLC, TUC and their allies in the Civil Society Movement on Thursday 12th January, 2012 met with the Senate leadership, Nigeria Governors Forum and the Executive Arm. “At the meeting, Labour asked the Presidency to suspend the new petrol (PMS) price increases announced on January 1, 2012. In return, we offered to suspend forthwith, the strikes, mass rallies and street protests. We also suggested that an expanded committee be set up which would discuss the fuel subsidy issue and pricing for petrol.
“The Government side presented a counter-proposal asking Labour to negotiate new fuel prices. Since we had no such mandate, Labour declined and decided to return to its National Executive Council meetings which will be held on Saturday 14th January, 2012 for a possible expanded mandate.” Labour commended the National Assembly for its intervention and further urges the Presidency to be more reconciliatory towards the people and show more understanding and sensitivity to their feelings and collective interests.