- Labour leaders and Niger State Government hold closed-door talks to avert imminent industrial action, addressing unresolved disputes
- Governor Umaru Bago leads government officials in discussions with NLC and TUC representatives over labour demands and potential strike action
Labour leaders and the Niger State Government are currently engaged in a closed-door discussion aimed at averting an imminent industrial action threatened by the former.
Governor Umaru Bago, alongside key governmental figures such as the Speaker of the House of Assembly, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the Chief of Staff, and other senior officials, are participating in the meeting.
The impetus behind this discussion is the joint communication from the state chapter heads of the NLC and TUC, Idris A. Lafene and Ibrahim Gana, respectively, directed to the Niger State government via the office of the Secretary to State Government. The letter highlights unresolved disputes between the government and organized labour, signalling the potential for industrial action until these issues are addressed.
Among the labour demands is the reversal of political appointments within various agencies, including Executive Directors and Commissioners, and clarity on wage awards. Furthermore, there is a call to ensure that appointments within the civil service adhere to qualifications, particularly concerning the appointment of permanent secretaries.
Of notable concern is the government’s alleged victimization of educators following a contentious primary school debate in Agaie, where accusations of vulgar language against the federal government were made.
The injunction issued by organized labour stipulates that an indefinite strike action will commence if demands are not met by 8 am on Wednesday, February 21, 2024.
This closed-door meeting underscores the urgency of addressing grievances to maintain industrial harmony within Niger State.