Looking back, Nigerian labour unions faced obstacles in their attempt to organize a general strike in protest of the government’s plan to increase petrol prices by up to 67 percent.
The unions, representing millions of workers, had announced an indefinite strike scheduled to commence on Wednesday, as a response to the government’s decision to eliminate the fuel subsidy scheme and raise gasoline prices.
This move was part of the government’s efforts to address Nigeria’s severe economic crisis.
However, their plans were thwarted when the Nigerian Industrial Court ruled against the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress. These unions represent workers from both the public and private sectors. The court order prohibited them from proceeding with the planned strike.
Justice Babatunde Adejumo, in his ruling on Tuesday, expressed concerns about potential civil disorder and hunger, which he cited as reasons for restraining the unions.
He stated, “The defendants are hereby restrained from carrying out the threat contained in their communique.”
It is worth noting that back in 2012, Nigeria had attempted to remove fuel subsidies by abruptly doubling gasoline prices.
However, widespread protests ensued, defying a previous court ruling, and eventually led to the reinstatement of some subsidies.
Talks between the unions and government officials were scheduled for Tuesday in an attempt to prevent the strike.
However, there is no immediate information on whether the unions will comply with the court order or if the discussions will proceed.
Requests for comment from the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress have gone unanswered.
