NLC’s Planned Protest, Strike Lawful – Falana

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana has faulted claims by the federal government that it is illegal for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliates to embark on strike action.

Recall that Organised Labour will proceed on strike starting from August 2.

According to Falana, the exercise doesn’t translate to contempt of court.

This was contained in a letter from the Falana Falana Chambers, solicitors to the NLC, by Sam Ogala, titled “Re- NLC in contempt of Court” and addressed to the Permanent Secretary/ Solicitor-General, Federal Ministry of Justice on July 28.

According to him, the decision of Nigerian workers to participate in peaceful rallies is for the interest of the masses and to protest the worsening economic crisis in the country.

He said, “You were reported to have accused the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress of treating the order of the National Industrial Court with contempt.

“Contrary to your unwarranted allegation, the Nigeria Labour Congress does not intend to disobey the ex parte order of the National Industrial Court.

“And to the effect that ‘the defendants/respondents are hereby restrained from embarking on the planned Industrial Action/or strike of any nature, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice dated June 5’.

NAN reports that the National Industrial Court in Abuja on June 5, restrained the NLC and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, from embarking on their planned strike to protest the unilateral removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.