Oshiomhole Expresses Concern That Labor Strike Is Not in Nigerians Best Interest
Senator Adams Oshiomhole Criticizes Striking Labor Unions, Urges Focus on Implementation of MOU
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North District, expressed his dissatisfaction with the ongoing nationwide strike led by Labor Unions, stating that their priorities do not align with the interests of Nigerian workers. Oshiomhole argued that the Organized Labor should concentrate on monitoring the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the Federal Government on October 2, 2023.
Speaking to State House Correspondents after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja, Oshiomhole emphasized the need to separate political opinions from responsibilities. He highlighted the importance of addressing various issues confronting workers and cautioned against mixing political sentiments with crucial matters affecting workers.
The MOU, signed on October 2, 2023, addressed several demands by Organized Labor, including the payment of N35,000 as Wage Awards to federal workers for the next six months and the provision of Compressed Natural Gas-enabled vehicles and conversion kits for commuting nationwide.
Despite the agreement, Labor Centers declared a nationwide strike on Monday to protest the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero and other executives in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1, as well as unresolved labor issues in Imo State. Oshiomhole suggested that the focus should be on mobilizing workers across all states to ensure the government fulfills its promises.
While acknowledging the right to peaceful protest, Oshiomhole urged Organized Labor to prioritize the implementation of agreements and engage with state governments to address issues affecting workers at all levels. He called for a collaborative effort to improve the living conditions of Nigerians.
Oshiomhole, accompanied by former members of the All Progressives Congress National Working Committee, visited the Villa to congratulate President Bola Tinubu on the APC’s success in the Imo and Kogi elections on November 11. He emphasized the importance of respecting the judgment of the majority of voters over the opinions of vocal urban elites.”
