Proposed strike: NPF urges organized labour to shelve strike

Etim Ekpimah

The Nigeria Police Force has asked the organised labour to shelve to prevent a breakdown of law and order within the country.

This was contained in a statement on Monday, 3 June 2024 and signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun.

According to the statement, in light of the Federal Government’s recent declaration that the planned strike is illegal and premature, the NPF views the action as a potential catalyst for increased tension and political instability.

The statement read: “The Nigeria Police Force, while acknowledging the recent announcement by organised labour regarding the intention to embark on nationwide strike action and understanding the right of organised labour to engage in such actions to advocate for the interests of all workers, wishes to emphasise the importance of adherence to the existing laws governing such activities; and calls for caution to prevent a breakdown of law and order within the country.

“In light of the Federal Government’s recent declaration that the planned strike is illegal and premature, the Nigeria Police Force views this action as a potential catalyst for increased tension and political instability.

“The NPF at this moment urges organised labour to proceed with the ongoing deliberations at the Tripartite Committee, which is focused on determining a new minimum wage, and shelve the planned strike as such decision is essential to prevent untold hardships on members of the public and maintain order and stability within our country.”

He added that the Nigeria Police Force assures the public that ample deployments have been made across the country to ensure citizens can do their lawful duties without hindrance.

Therefore, all public members are encouraged to remain calm and continue with their lawful daily activities. At the same time, organised labour is urged to act responsibly and by the law, prioritising dialogue and legal avenues to resolve existing grievances.