The Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress have declared to start a nationwide workers’ strike on October 3. 

At the same time, the Federal Government has invited leaders of the two labour movements to a meeting in a last-minute attempt to avert the strike. 

The two unions have cited the alleged failure of the government to provide post-subsidy palliatives for the workers as the main reason for the strike.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Productivity has warned the unions against paralyzing the economy, as the government promises to address their concerns. 

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Labour Ministry spokesperson Olajide Oshundun had explained to news reporters that President Bola Tinubu would address the issues affecting workers in the country during Independence Day celebrations on October 1.

As the country marks its Independence Day on October 1, Tinubu will be expected to unveil a comprehensive palliative package for the workers. 

According to Oshundun, the workers’ unions have already shared their demands with the government for consideration.

He added that the government had already met one of the NLC’s demands which was the release of the factional National President of the National Association of Road Transport Workers, Tajudeen Baruwa, from police custody.

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The second major demand was salary increment for the workers to cushion them against the high cost of living that was triggered by the removal of the petrol subsidy.

“We got the news of their intention to go on strike but they need to be rest assured that there will be a pronouncement in the October 1 speech of President Tinubu,” he said.