Travellers in Delta State have been left stranded due to a nationwide strike organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). The strike, which began on November 14, 2023, follows the recent assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero by the Nigerian police and the Imo State government. The strike has caused disruptions at the Ujevwu Train Station in Udu, as travellers were unable to board their scheduled trains.
Reports suggest that some stranded travellers had purchased their tickets online, but were informed that their tickets would remain valid once the strike is called off. The NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had previously written to their affiliates, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities, National Union of Electricity Employees, Nigeria Union of Teachers, and others, instructing them to issue circulars to ensure maximum compliance with the strike.
In a statement, the President of TUC, Festus Osifo, emphasized that the strike would continue until the government took responsibility and addressed the issues raised by the assault on the NLC president. Following the directive from the NLC and TUC, workers across Nigeria were directed to withdraw their services starting from midnight on November 13, 2023.
It is worth noting that the strike has led to significant disruptions, particularly for travellers who had already made plans. While the strike may inconvenience many, the actions taken by the NLC and TUC are aimed at drawing attention to the assault on their leader and expressing their discontent with the government’s response.
As the strike continues, it is essential for both sides to engage in dialogue and find a resolution that addresses the concerns of the Nigerian workers. The government must recognize the importance of addressing the grievances raised by the NLC and work towards a peaceful resolution. In the meantime, travellers affected by the strike will need to make alternative arrangements or wait until the strike is called off before resuming their journeys.
The current nationwide strike represents a larger issue regarding workers’ rights and demands for better treatment. It serves as a reminder that the government must take decisive action to protect and address the concerns of its citizens. The Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress are united in their pursuit of fair treatment and improved conditions for workers across the country.
As the strike unfolds, updates will be provided on the developments and progress made towards resolving the issues at hand. Nigerian workers and the general public can rest assured that the NLC and TUC remain committed to pursuing the interests of the nation’s workers and people. It is hoped that through dialogue and negotiation, a mutually beneficial solution can be reached, ensuring the rights and welfare of workers are protected.
In summary, the nationwide strike called by the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress has left travellers stranded in Delta State. The strike was organized in response to the assault on the NLC president and aims to draw attention to the concerns of Nigerian workers. Despite the inconveniences caused by the strike, it serves as a reminder for the government to address workers’ rights and demands for improved conditions. Both sides must engage in dialogue to find a peaceful resolution while ensuring the welfare of workers is protected.
