The Nigeria Police Force has asked organised labour to postpone the scheduled strike and return to negotiations with the federal government.
It stated that through negotiations, both sides will resolve the problem peacefully, as the industrial action might cause tremendous misery to Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police said that avoiding the strike will avert a breakdown in law and order across the country.
The statement reads, “In light of the Federal Government’s recent declaration that the planned strike is illegal and premature, the Nigeria Police Force views this action as a potential catalyst for increased tension and political instability.
“The NPF hereby urges organised labour to proceed with the ongoing deliberations at the Tripartite Committee, which is focused on determining a new minimum wage, and shelve the planned strike as such a decision is essential to prevent untold hardships on members of the public and maintain order and stability within our country.
“The Nigeria Police Force assures the public that ample deployments have been made across the country to ensure that citizens can go about their lawful duties without hindrance.
“Therefore, all members of the public are encouraged to remain calm and continue with their lawful daily activities, while organised labour is urged to act responsibly and in accordance with the law, prioritising dialogue and legal avenues to resolving the existing grievances.”
Chronicle NG reports that the organised labour nationwide industrial action over minimum wage demand is starting today (Monday).
The meeting held by National Assembly leaders on Sunday night failed to achieve its goal due to the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Unions Congress’ insistence on continuing today’s strike.
The meeting, presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, was attended by NLC President Joe Ajaero and his TUC counterpart Festus Osifo.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting with the National Assembly leaders, Osifo said, “The Senate President appealed to us to call off the strike.
“But we can’t sit here and call off the strike because we have other organs. We will take the appeals to our various organs.
“We don’t have the power to call off the strike action. For now, the strike action will commence while we discuss with our organs.”
