The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and its sister union, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have suspended the ongoing nationwide protest after meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Confirming the development, the TUC President, Festus Osifo stated on Arise News that they had agreed to suspend the strike and convene for more deliberations on a future date.
Dele Alake, Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications & Strategy, also disclosed this Wednesday evening.
Stating that “Consequent upon the fruitful and frank discussion with President Tinubu and their confidence in his ability to encourage open and honest consideration of all the issues put forward by the Labour Movement, the Labour Leaders resolved to stop further protest.
“They opted for further constructive engagement with the government to resolve all outstanding issues as they affect the working people and Nigerians in general.
“President Tinubu gave his commitment to the Labour leaders that the Port Harcourt refineries will start production by December 2023 after the completion of the ongoing rehabilitation contract between NNPCL and Italian firm, Maire Tecnimont SpA.
“President Tinubu assured the Labour leaders that he would continue to work for the best interest of Nigeria while pleading with the Labour leaders to join hands with him to birth a better and economically buoyant country.”
The leadership of the organised labour led by the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero and his TUC counterpart, Festus Osifo had earlier led the Nigerian workers to a peaceful rally that started from the Unity Fountain and terminated at the National Assembly.
They protested over the removal of petrol subsidy that led to an increase in the pump price from an initial N195 before the swearing of the President on May 29 to N550 per litre and later to N617 which has led to an increase in goods and services and the attendant hardship.