NLC Rejects Attempt to Criminalise Strikes Under New Industrial Relations Policy

By: Chinedu Echianu

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly rejected any attempt by the Federal Government to use the newly adopted National Industrial Relations Policy to criminalise strike actions and undermine the rights of trade unions in the country.

In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the NLC described as “reprehensible” the government’s focus on curbing industrial actions under the guise of implementing a new policy, noting that this signals an alarming shift in the government’s approach to industrial relations.

The controversy follows a press briefing held after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on July 31, where the government reportedly announced that the policy was aimed at reducing the frequency of strikes by trade unions. The NLC expressed deep concern that among the numerous workplace issues covered in the policy, the government singled out strike actions as its primary concern.

“We are in shock,” the NLC said, “that from a catalogue of hundreds of workplace issues contained in the National Industrial Relations Policy, the Federal Government singled out industrial strikes as its headache.”

The Congress accused the government of seeking to overturn key decisions reached through the tripartite process involving labour unions, employers, and government representatives. It also recalled previous failed attempts to include anti-strike clauses in the policy — efforts that were rejected by all major stakeholders, including the Ministry of Labour itself.

According to the NLC, any attempt to criminalise lawful strike actions violates the 1999 Constitution, the Trade Unions Act, and international labour standards to which Nigeria is a signatory. The Umbrella Union argued that such efforts undermine constitutionality and the rule of law.

“It appears that some in government want to enjoy the fruits of democracy while discarding its principles,” the statement continued. “The right of workers and trade unions to withdraw their services is fundamental and inalienable.”

Comrade Ajaero warned against what he described as “toxic clauses” that may have been secretly inserted into the policy, adding that such provisions, even if present, cannot override the supremacy of Nigeria’s Constitution and established labour laws.

While condemning and rejecting what it sees as a dangerous precedent in industrial relations, the NLC reassured Nigerian workers that the Labour Movement remains committed to defending workers’ rights, interests, and freedoms.

“The struggle continues,” the statement concluded.