The organised labour in Niger State has declared an indefinite industrial action, formally notifying the government of their strike set to commence on February 21, 2024. The strike will persist until all their demands are met.
Among their demands is the reversal of all political appointments as Executive Directors of Finance, Operations, and Administration in agencies. They also demand the reversal of appointments of chairmen, members, and permanent commissioners of the Local Government Service Commission and Civil Service Commission, as well as appointments of directors-general of certain agencies.
Additionally, they seek a clear statement from the government regarding the payment of awarded wages. Furthermore, they warn against the appointment of civil servants who are not qualified as permanent secretaries and urge the withdrawal of the appointment of a vice principal on secondment as a permanent secretary to allow for career progression from within.
In light of recent events, organised labour cautions the state government against victimizing teachers and members of the educational sector regarding the recent primary school debate in Agaie. The government alleged that a pupil used vulgar and violent language against the federal government.
In a letter jointly signed by the state chairman of the NLC, Idris A. Lafene, and the state chairman of the TUC, Ibrahim Gana, addressed to the Niger State government through the office of the Secretary to the State Government, organised labour states that the industrial action will continue until all outstanding disputes between them and the government are resolved.
The Niger State indefinite strike is likely to put a significant negative impact on production and productivity, affecting various sectors such as medical health care facilities, Transportation facilities and the overall economy of the state.Niger State Indefinite Strike Threatens Production and Economy.
The indefinite strike looming over Niger State is poised to deliver a substantial blow to production and productivity, with various sectors set to bear the brunt of the impact. Medical healthcare facilities, transportation services, and the broader economy of the state are all at risk.
As the strike persists, medical healthcare facilities are expected to face operational challenges, potentially leading to disruptions in patient care and access to essential medical services. This could exacerbate existing healthcare concerns and pose risks to public health.
Furthermore, transportation facilities are likely to experience disruptions, hindering the movement of goods and people within the state. This could lead to delays in supply chains, increased transportation costs, and inconvenience for residents reliant on public transit.
Overall, the strike threatens to undermine the overall economy of Niger State, with repercussions expected to ripple across various sectors. Businesses, residents, and stakeholders are bracing for the impact as efforts to resolve the labor dispute continue.
