The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticised the newly adopted National Industrial Relations Policy, warning that it could criminalise strike actions and suppress trade union activities in the country.
In a statement issued in Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed deep concern over the Federal Government’s announcement that the policy is intended to curb frequent industrial actions. He described the move as an attack on the constitutional and legal rights of Nigerian workers.
“The government’s focus on strikes as the major problem in a policy meant to address numerous workplace issues is disappointing,” Ajaero said. “It reflects a disturbing mindset from those elected to defend the rights of ordinary citizens, including workers.”
He recalled earlier attempts to insert anti-strike provisions during the drafting of the policy, which were rejected by trade unions, employers, and the Federal Ministry of Labour for being inconsistent with the 1999 Constitution and the Trade Unions Act.
Ajaero insisted that the right of workers and unions to withdraw their services is legally protected and fundamental.
“This new insertion into the industrial policy is inferior to existing constitutional provisions and labour laws,” he stated. “Any attempt to silence trade unions or make strikes a criminal offence is unacceptable.”
The NLC president assured Nigerian workers that the congress remains vigilant and fully committed to defending their rights and freedoms.
He reaffirmed that organised labour will resist any policy that undermines hard-earned industrial liberties, warning that any violation of workers’ rights would be met with strong opposition.
“Our rights are guaranteed by the Constitution, our labour laws, and international standards to which Nigeria is bound. We will not allow them to be eroded,” Ajaero declared.
