GOVERNMENT activities in Niger State, particularly the state capital, Minna, have been grounded on Wednesday as public sector workers embarked on an indefinite strike action.
The strike was directed by the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) following unsuccessful negotiations with the government.
The NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) issued a directive on Monday for civil servants to embark on an indefinite strike due to the state government’s alleged failure to address issues related to workers’ welfare and effective governance.
The demands presented by organised labour include the reversal of political appointments in various agencies, including Executive Directors of Finance, Operations, and Administration.
They also called for the reversal of appointments in the Local Government Service Commission and Civil Service Commission, as well as the withdrawal of appointments of directors-general in government agencies.
The labour unions emphasized the need for a clear statement from the government on the payment of wage awards and cautioned against appointing unqualified individuals as permanent secretaries.
ALSO READ:
Labour Party Chairman, Abure, Arrested In Edo
Benue Volunteer Guards’ Deputy Commander Accuses Commander Of Threat To Life, Molestation
Police Fire Tear Gas On Thousands Of Indian Farmers Marching To Capital
They also urged the government to withdraw the appointment of a vice principal on secondment as a permanent secretary to allow for career progression within the civil service.
In response to the impending strike, the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, announced a meeting with the labour unions to address the contentious issues.
He assured that the government was committed to resolving the issues in the state’s best interest and maintaining a cordial relationship with organized labour.
As a result of the strike, many government establishments were under lock and key, including health care facilities across the 25 local government areas in the state.
