Court restrains NLC, TUC from embarking on planned strike

The National Industrial Court (NIC) on Monday granted an order restraining the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) from embarking on their planned Wednesday industrial action.

Justice Olufunke Anuwe also ordered that there should not be strike of any nature, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice dated June 5, 2023.

The court in addition ordered that the defendants be served immediately with the processes in the suit, the Motion on Notice and the order of the court.

The court further fixed the matter until June 19, for hearing.

From facts, the judge made the order sequel to an ex-parte application filed by the applicants, Federal Government and the Attorney-General of the Federation & Minister of Justice.

The applicants had submitted that the proposed strike action is capable of disrupting economic activities, the health sector and the educational sector.

They claim that the strike may gravely affect the larger society and the well-being of the nation at large.

Counsel to FG, Maimuna Shiru also submitted that students of secondary schools nationwide, especially those writing WAEC exams will be affected and that the Tertiary institutions who just resumed after eight months ASUU strike will also be affected.

The application also stated that the strike will affect the health sector amongst other sectors; and above all, the economy of the nation.

The respondents have declared that they will embark on nationwide strike on Wednesday to protest the fuel subsidy removal that brought about the new pump price for the Premium Motor Spirit.