In a decisive move, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has initiated a two-day warning strike, causing a substantial gathering of concerned citizens outside the Apapa port in Lagos. The strike action comes in the wake of the NLC’s refusal to engage in a meeting with the Federal Government, citing escalating hardships and widespread suffering resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies as the primary motive.
The NLC issued a formal notice of the two-day warning strike on Friday, signaling its intention to protest the prevailing hardship and impoverishment experienced by citizens across the nation. In a stern ultimatum, the NLC also warned of the possibility of a complete and indefinite shutdown of the national economy within 14 working days or 21 days following the warning strike if the government fails to address the nation’s mounting hardships.
Amidst a sea of frustration and disappointment, an aggrieved seaport staff member expressed deep concern over the federal government’s perceived negligence towards the suffering of Nigerians. He voiced skepticism about the efficacy of the two-day strike and advocated for a complete shutdown of operations until their demands were met.
However, confusion looms as other workers at the Apapa seaport appeared oblivious to the impending warning strike. One anonymous source claimed that misinformation in the media had caused confusion within the ranks. They noted, “the media were not being factual with the information they sent to the public. At first, I heard of the strike, and later, I heard it wouldn’t hold. You know NLC is always not stable with their actions compared to the days of Adams Oshiomole when he was the President of the Union. But now, we no longer believe their statements; that’s why many of us were not aware of the warning strike.”
A physical observation by Vanguard reporters revealed that the gates of the Apapa seaport had been firmly locked, causing considerable disruption to the daily operations of the facility and leaving numerous individuals stranded in the process.
Meanwhile, the Mile 2 road experienced severe traffic congestion as vehicles refused to transport commuters, resulting in disruptions to some offices in the Apapa area.
The NLC’s warning strike is poised to send shockwaves through Nigeria as citizens anxiously await the government’s response to their demands amidst growing concerns over the economic and social ramifications of the fuel subsidy removal.
