The National Assembly has announced plans to engage with organised labour in an effort to prevent the industrial action scheduled to begin on Monday.
In light of this, it has urged all stakeholders to remain patient and cooperative as it works towards a mutually acceptable resolution for the benefit of the country.
The legislative body’s decision to intervene comes after negotiations between the Federal Government and labour unions reached an impasse.
The discussions focused on establishing a new national minimum wage and reversing the recent increase in electricity tariffs.
A joint statement issued on Sunday by the Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, and the House of Representatives spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, disclosed that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen are taking proactive measures to mediate and prevent the impending strike.
The National Assembly emphasised that both the labour unions and the Federal Government have valid reasons for their respective positions. It also warned that a strike would have severe repercussions on the population and the economy.
The statement read: “The National Assembly acknowledges the announcement by organized labour, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), to commence an indefinite strike action from Monday, June 3, 2024, nationwide.
“In response, the National Assembly Leadership, along with the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Labour, Employment, and Productivity, Senator Diket Plang and Rep. Adegboyega Adefarati, respectively, are seeking to engage both parties in constructive dialogue and explore various solutions to address the issues at hand.”
The 10th National Assembly affirmed its commitment to ensuring that the interests of all parties are fairly represented.