The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria has expressed its disagreement with the Nigeria Labour Congress regarding the call for a nationwide protest without prior consultation.
The TUC, in a letter addressed to NLC President Joe Ajaero, criticized the unilateral decision to declare a two-day national protest without consulting the TUC, despite both labor organizations jointly issuing a 14-day ultimatum on the same matter.
The ultimatum, focused on the non-implementation of the 16-point Memorandum of Understanding, is set to expire on February 22.
The Secretary-General of TUC, Nuhu Toro, conveyed the organization’s displeasure, emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making. The letter, dated February 19, urged the NLC to review the situation jointly and agree on the way forward before convening their respective National Executive Council meetings.
Toro’s letter read, “Our respective NEC is made up of highly intelligent individuals, who are desirous that we both work together always in our collective interest. It is our responsibility as leaders to harmonize our positions before jointly going to the press.”
The TUC expressed disappointment that this was the third time a unilateral declaration had occurred under Ajaero’s leadership, suggesting a potential intentional act to undermine the TUC.
The TUC acknowledged the pain felt by its members and expressed readiness for collaboration but stressed the need for a consultative approach. The letter highlighted the importance of addressing the ultimatum that expires concurrently before tackling additional issues.
While recognizing NLC’s right to take independent decisions, the TUC insisted on the principles of mutual respect, collaboration, and effective communication in matters affecting workers and the masses.
The letter concluded with a plea for the NLC to reconsider its approach, engage in meaningful consultation, and uphold the integrity of the partnership between the two labor organizations. The TUC emphasized the necessity of open dialogue and consensus-building for decisions of such magnitude.
