In a significant escalation of labor unrest, rail and bank workers, organized under the umbrella of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), have joined the nationwide strike to protest the recent brutalization of Joe Ajaero, the president of the NLC, and other unresolved issues with the government.
Segun Esan, the Secretary-General of the Nigeria Union of Railway Workers, confirmed the union’s active participation in the strike, emphasizing that all railway operations have been halted. Esan stated, “What this means is that all the workers of Nigerian Railway are duty-bound to join the nationwide strike action from the zero-zero hour of Tuesday, 14th November 2023, by staying back at home and away from their offices.”
He further clarified that all offices, stations, workshops, and premises of the corporation would remain locked and inaccessible until directed otherwise by the Congress.
Oluwole Olusoji, President of the Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance, and Financial Institutions, conveyed that advice on compliance with the strike had been disseminated to their members. He urged members to prioritize the safety of lives and property, guarding against any individuals seeking to exploit the situation. “We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds,” added Olusoji.
The nationwide strike, which commenced on Tuesday, 14th November 2023, has gained momentum with the active involvement of rail and bank workers. The industrial action is not only a response to the brutalization of Joe Ajaero but also addresses various outstanding issues between organized labor and the government.
As tensions rise, the impact of the strike is expected to be felt across multiple sectors, highlighting the collective determination of organized labor to voice their concerns and seek resolution from the government. The situation remains fluid, and stakeholders are closely monitoring developments as the nationwide strike unfolds.
