The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have taken decisive action on the second day of their nationwide strike by closing the doors of the National Assembly complex in Abuja. As of 9:00 am on Wednesday, the complex’s gates were securely locked in response to disruptions initiated by the unions the previous day.
While the National Assembly management has not issued a statement regarding the situation, the gates to the Presidential villa, connected to the legislative complex, remained accessible for security personnel and essential workers. This closure has affected journalists, legislative aides, and members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), affiliated with the organized labor, who found themselves barred from entry. Tuesday saw a partial strike, leading to motorists and staff being stranded for several hours.
The NLC has outlined six demands as prerequisites for considering an end to the ongoing nationwide strike, sparked by the brutal attack on its National President, Joe Ajaero, and other leaders in Owerri, Imo State. Among the NLC’s demands is the arrest and prosecution of Mr. Chinasa Nwaneri, the Special Adviser on Special Duties to Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, accused by the labor union of leading the attack against workers on November 7 during the governorship election in the state. Additionally, the NLC calls for the arrest, prosecution, and dismissal of police officers involved in the attack on Ajaero, as well as the apprehension and prosecution of all thugs responsible for the assault in Imo State. The unions remain resolute in their stance until justice is served in these matters.