The Nigerian Labour Party has declared its full support for the forthcoming labor union industrial action, scheduled to commence on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.

In an official statement released by Pastor Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, the party acknowledged the remarkable patience and resilience of Nigerian workers in the face of considerable hardships. The statement emphasized the Labour Party’s endorsement of legitimate means employed by Nigerian workers to advocate for improved living conditions.

The statement further elaborated, “The leadership of the Labour Party stands firmly behind the resolutions of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to initiate an industrial action beginning on Tuesday, October 3rd.

“Over the past four months, we have closely monitored various meetings between Organized Labour and government entities, including the President of the Senate, the presidency, and the ministers of Labour. We have also witnessed the relentless efforts made by Labour leadership to convey the extent of suffering caused by government policies on Nigerian Workers and the entire population since the inception of this administration.

“Regrettably, the government’s perceived indifference, insensitivity, intransigence, and uncooperative stance toward the legitimate demands of Labour organizations do not come as a surprise to us. The government’s acquisition of power lacked the endorsement of both the workers and the majority of Nigerians.

“The Nigerian people cast their votes with a clear vision for their desired government, but this vision was thwarted by institutional collusion. Today, Nigerian workers bear the brunt of their principled stance during the February 25 Presidential Election.

“The Labour Party is also cognizant of the dire conditions faced by workers, a substantial portion of whom are our members. Many are compelled to spend the entire workweek in their offices due to the prevailing economic challenges before returning home on weekends.

“We find it perplexing that the government claims to have removed subsidies on petroleum products and now generates over a trillion naira monthly, yet it struggles to address the demands of workers.

“Nigerians grapple with harsh economic realities, with the inflation rate nearing 30 percent, the exchange rate exceeding N1000 per dollar, and per capita income in decline. Families are forced to withdraw their children from schools due to skyrocketing tuition fees, while criminal activities surge daily.

“We believe that Nigerian workers have exhibited commendable patience and understanding throughout these trying times.

“We are also advising all our members and supporters to prepare adequately by stocking up on essential supplies ahead of an extended mass action until victory is achieved,” the party’s statement concluded.