Unions Stand Firm on October 3 Strike
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) remain resolute in their decision to embark on a nationwide strike scheduled for October 3, 2023.
This strike, set to be indefinite, threatens to disrupt essential services and daily life for Nigerians.
Fuel Scarcity and Blackouts Loom
As the strike date approaches, Nigerians may have to prepare for the possibility of fuel scarcity and a nationwide blackout.
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) have vowed to join the strike, which could significantly impact fuel and electricity supplies.
Health Workers and Judiciary Staff Join the Cause
The strike isn’t limited to fuel and electricity sectors.
Health workers, organized under the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, are also set to participate.
This could lead to a disruption of healthcare services in government-owned facilities.
Unions’ Demands and Urgent Action
The unions cite various demands, including issues related to salaries and economic conditions, as reasons for their strike action.
They urge the government to take immediate steps to address these concerns and avert the impending hardship that the strike could bring upon Nigerians.
NUPENG and NUEE: Non-Negotiable Participation
NUPENG’s National President, Williams Akporeha, affirmed the union’s commitment to following the directives of the NLC, emphasizing that their participation in the strike is non-negotiable.
He stressed their affiliation with the NLC and unwavering support for the strike.
NUEE: Preparing for a Massive Shutdown
Dominic Igwebuike, the acting General Secretary of NUEE, emphasized that the power sector employees are committed to joining the strike, despite their role as essential workers.
He noted that power sector workers are also Nigerians facing the same challenges and economic conditions.
Health Workers and Palliatives
Healthcare workers under JOHESU express their discontent with the delayed implementation of salary structure revisions and unfulfilled promises of palliatives.
They highlight the economic difficulties faced by their members and their decision to join the strike in solidarity with other unions.
Paralyzing Health Services
Health services in government-owned facilities are expected to be severely impacted by the strike.
While some skeletal services, especially for patients in Intensive Care Units, may be provided, the strike is likely to disrupt healthcare services across the country.
Solidarity for the Common Good
The National President of the National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP), Kamal Ibrahim, also expressed solidarity with the strike, emphasizing that it is for the greater good of the people.
This sentiment underscores the unions’ collective determination to bring attention to their demands and seek resolutions from the government.