The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced plans to stage a peaceful solidarity rally on February 3 in support of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), following the ongoing strike by workers of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) over unpaid salaries and unresolved welfare issues.
The decision was contained in a joint statement signed by Mr. Benson Upah, General Secretary of the NLC, and Mr. Nuhu Toro, Secretary General of the TUC, and issued in Abuja. According to the unions, the rally is aimed at demonstrating organised labour’s total support for FCDA workers who have been on an indefinite strike since January 19.
JUAC-led workers commenced the strike after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued on January 7 to the management of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). The industrial action led to the shutdown of major government offices, including the FCTA Secretariat and the FCDA, disrupting administrative activities in the Federal Capital Territory.
The NLC and TUC said the planned rally is meant to reaffirm labour’s long-held principle that “an injury to one is an injury to all,” stressing that the struggle of the FCDA workers is legitimate and non-negotiable.
“This action will send a clear message that labour will resist all forms of intimidation and injustice against workers,” the unions stated, adding that their support for JUAC members remains total, unwavering and will be sustained until justice is achieved.
They urged striking workers to remain steadfast, courageous and united in the defence of their rights, noting that workers’ rights are not freely given but won through collective struggle.
The unions further explained that the peaceful rally would be directed at the FCDA and would be conducted lawfully, without violence or disruption beyond its intended message. They directed all labour affiliates and state councils to mobilise members massively for the rally.
Assuring workers in the Federal Capital Territory of continued backing, the NLC and TUC said intimidation or repression would not weaken the resolve of organised labour to fight injustice and defend workers’ welfare. (NAN)
Leave a comment