NLC begins warning strike, Apapa port workers stranded
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has embarked on a two-day warning strike to demand the reversal of the fuel subsidy removal and other policies that have worsened the living conditions of Nigerians.
The strike has affected the operations of the Apapa port in Lagos, where workers were barred from entering the premises.
Some of the workers who gathered outside the port gate expressed their frustration with the government’s failure to address the plight of the masses. They said they were suffering from high inflation, insecurity, unemployment and poor infrastructure.
They also said they supported the NLC’s action and called for a total shutdown of the economy if the government did not heed their demands.
The NLC had earlier rejected an invitation from the Federal Government for a meeting to resolve the issues that led to the strike.
The labour union said it was not interested in dialogue but in action. It accused the government of being insensitive and insincere in its dealings with the workers and the people. It also said it had exhausted all avenues of negotiation and consultation before declaring the strike.
The strike has also disrupted transportation and business activities in Lagos and other parts of the country. Many commuters were stranded as buses, taxis and motorcycles were scarce on the roads.
Some businesses were also closed as workers stayed away from their offices. The strike is expected to continue on Tuesday, unless the government meets the NLC’s demands.
