In support of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced that they will hold a nonviolent demonstration on February 3.
The unions declared this in a joint statement signed by Mr Benson Upah, General Secretary of the NLC, and Mr Nuhu Toro, Secretary General of the TUC, in Abuja.
The solidarity is in favor of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) employees’ strike over unpaid salary, which is being spearheaded by JUAC.
Workers under JUAC started an indefinite strike on Jan. 19, closing down important administrative offices, including the FCTA Secretariat and the FCDA.
The walkout came after a seven-day ultimatum requesting that the FCTA management resolve long-standing labor and welfare issues expired on January 7.
The purpose of the rally, according to the union, is to underline labor’s collective commitment that an injury to one worker still affects the entire Nigerian labor movement.
“The action will send a clear message that labour will resist all forms of intimidation and injustice against workers,” they stated.
According to the unions, the fight was justifiable, non-negotiable, and would continue until justice was served.
They also stated that they continued to fully and steadfastly support JUAC members.
They called on JUAC members to defend their rights with courage, unity, and steadfastness.
The planned event, according to the NLC and TUC, was intended to show solidarity against injustice.
They insisted that the rally would be legal and nonviolent, adding that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) will be the target of the nonviolent action.
They instructed all affiliates and state councils to mobilise members massively for the event, saying that intimidation and repression will not undermine workers’ determination.
They reaffirmed that workers’ rights were acquired via collective effort rather than being granted.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) workers were reassured by the unions that they would not be left behind. (NAN)
