Tinubu decries frequent labour strikes, vows to end corruption
By Ukpono Ukpong
President Bola Tinubu has decried what he described as the frequent strike actions by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
He slammed the leadership of the organised labour for embarking on strike actions four times in his nine-month old administration.
‘Some labour unions should understand that no matter how we cling to our freedom and rights, to call for strikes within the first nine months of a new administration is unacceptable”, he said.
While recognising the constitutional rights of the unions to go on strike, the President emphasised the importance of peace for the country’s advancement.
Tinubu spoke on Thursday in Lagos where he commissioned the Lagos Red Line rail.
Addressing the gathering, Tinubu urged the NLC to recognise the nation’s fledgling administration and prioritise stability over confrontation, highlighting the broader interests at stake.
The NLC and its affiliated unions had embarked on street protests on Wednesday, over the rising cost of living, inflation, insecurity, and general hardship. The protests underscored growing discontent nationwide.
The President urged restraint, reminding the unions of the collective responsibility in shaping the nation’s future. He advised that the 2027 election cycle should be an avenue for electoral participation by the unions if they so desired, even as he urged dialogue over dissent.
”If you want to directly participate in the electoral process, wait until 2027, if not, maintain the peace. Labour is not the only voice of Nigeria,” the President affirmed.
Expressing optimism for Nigeria’s economic trajectory, Tinubu underscored the significance of collaborative efforts.
He reflected on his long-term vision to drive infrastructure development, including the Red Line rail project initiated 25 years ago during his tenure as governor.
The President called for unity and perseverance as the nation navigates its challenges. He called for collective commitment to enable the nation overcome obstacles and build a brighter future for all Nigerians.
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Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fighting corruption to ruins, even though he admitted that corruption would always fight back.
“The fight against corruption is on, we will not look back, we will fight it to ruins,” he said.
He assured Nigerians that the country will overcome its economic and other challenges, stressing, “We just need to work hard with perseverance”.
“The momentum of greatness that we started has become unstoppable. It is a constant reminder that positive change and progress are possible, and we must attain it. We must adhere to our pledge through perseverance and consistency”.
