The leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and that of Trade Union Congress (TUC) has resolved to stop further protest, which started on Wednesday to press demand for economic difficulties resulting from the removal of petrol subsidy.
This followed Wednesday evening’s meeting between Labour and the Federal Government, which was presided over by President Bola Tinubu. Labour was led by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and his TUC counterpart, Comrade Festus Usifo.
In a statement, the presidential spokesman, Mr. Dele Alake described the session as “fruitful and frank”, while Ajaero said it was “fruitful and productive”.
Alake said that Labour opted for further constructive engagement with the government to resolve all outstanding issues as they affect the working people and Nigerians in general.
“President Tinubu gave his commitment to the Labour leaders that the Port Harcourt refineries will start production by December 2023 after the completion of the ongoing rehabilitation contract between NNPCL and Italian firm, Maire Tecnimont SpA.
“President Tinubu assured the Labour leaders that he would continue to work for the best interest of Nigeria while pleading with the Labour leaders to join hands with him to birth a better and economically buoyant country”, the presidential spokesman further said.
Ajaero told State House correspondents that the parties thoroughly examined the proposed economic measures, which sparked the protests persist.
The organised labour, led by the NLC and TUC, embarked on protests across the country on Wednesday over the removal of petrol subsidy without adequate palliative measures.
The protests raised concerns about the impact on citizens’ cost of living, especially the vulnerable.
