Strike: FG directs workers to shun labour unions

The Federal Government on Friday directed workers to shun the planned strike action by the labour unions and report for duties.

This is contained in a circular dated 25th September, 2020 with reference number HCSF/190/5.1/11/19 and signed by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan.

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Daily Trust reports that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and affiliated unions are poised for a showdown with the government over the recent fuel price hike and electricity tariffs increase.

They had given the federal government a two-week ultimatum to reverse the increments else they will embark on a nationwide strike.

But the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, said that sequel to the call by the Labour Unions for workers to embark on industrial action from Monday, 28th September, 2020, the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), wishes to inform all public servants that the Federal Government team is currently engaging with the unions to resolve all contentious issues and avert the planned industrial action.

“Accordingly, all officers on Grade Level 12 and above and those on essential services are hereby strongly advised to be at work to perform their official duties.

“Furthermore, it is important to note that there is a court injunction granted by the National Industrial Court (Suit No. NICN/ABJ/253/2020) on 24th September, 2020 restraining the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria from embarking on any form of industrial action pending the hearing and determination of a Motion on Notice.

“Accordingly, all officers on Grade Level 12 and above and those on essential services are hereby strongly advised to be at work to perform their official duties,” Yemi-Esan said.

She also directed Permanent Secretaries and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) to bring the contents of the circular to the attention of all concerned officers and ensure strict compliance.