Nigeria Braces for Nationwide Strike Amid Fuel Subsidy Removal: Implications on Fuel and Power Supply, Healthcare, and Judiciary Services
In response to the removal of the fuel subsidy by the Tinubu-led administration, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) are poised to embark on an indefinite strike, commencing Tuesday, October 3.
As the nation braces for this significant protest, several key sectors are expected to be profoundly affected.
Nigerians may face the impending challenges of fuel scarcity and nationwide blackout, as the Nigeria Union of Petroleum, Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) have pledged their support to the strike.
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Both unions have affirmed their commitment to following the directives of the NLC.
NUPENG’s National President, Williams Akporeha, underscored the non-negotiable nature of their participation, stating, “We are an affiliate of NLC and we will follow their directives to the letter.”
Similarly, the acting General Secretary of NUEE, Dominic Igwebuike, emphasized their readiness to join the strike, which would lead to a substantial shutdown of the power sector.
While acknowledging the status of power sector employees as essential workers, Igwebuike maintained their determination to participate in the strike, highlighting that they, too, face the same challenges and hardships as other Nigerians.
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The healthcare sector, represented by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, has also pledged its solidarity with the planned nationwide strike.
Acting National Vice Chairman of JOHESU, Obinna Ogbonna, confirmed that healthcare workers affiliated with TUC and NLC will not report for duty during the strike period.
He emphasized their demands for an upward review of salary structures and the implementation of palliatives in response to the prevailing economic conditions.
The impending strike, slated for October 3, has raised significant concerns about its impact on critical sectors of the nation. With potential disruptions in fuel supply, power distribution, healthcare services, and judiciary functions, Nigerians are bracing themselves for a period of widespread inconvenience and hardship.
As the date approaches, stakeholders and citizens alike will be closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a constructive resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved.
