Nigerian Labour Congress Reacts To Shutdown of National Grid, Tackles TCN For Using Soldiers To Harass Workers
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) reacted strongly to the shutdown of the national power grid, attributing it to the ongoing strike initiated by workers in the electricity sector. NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) for accusing the NLC’s monitoring team of attacking TCN workers.
TCN claimed the grid shutdown was deliberate, but the NLC refuted this, stating it was a result of workers exercising their right to strike. The NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) began the nationwide strike to protest the proposed N60,000 minimum wage and other grievances, such as incomplete wage negotiations and electricity tariff hikes.
The NLC emphasized that TCN’s attempt to undermine the strike by coercing workers backfired and highlighted the critical role of workers in maintaining operations. The NLC accused TCN of spreading falsehoods and using the military to intimidate workers, calling it an abuse of power and insulting to democracy.
The NLC reiterated its commitment to fighting for fair wages and reversing the electricity tariff hike, urging Nigerians to support their cause against blackmail and harassment.
The statement emphasized the NLC’s grievances, including incomplete minimum wage negotiations and electricity tariff hikes, which had not been addressed by the government despite earlier notifications. The NLC denied any mistreatment of TCN workers and criticized TCN for its failure to understand industrial action dynamics.
Overall, the NLC’s response focused on defending workers’ rights, condemning TCN’s actions, and calling for public support in their struggle for fair wages and working conditions.
SaharaReporters
