In a stern warning to the Organised Labour, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has labelled the recent shutdown of the National Grid by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) as a “treasonable felony.”
Akume made these remarks while addressing the National Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Abuja.
Akume urged the labour unions to exercise greater caution in their demands, particularly regarding the national minimum wage and the restoration of the old electricity tariff.
He emphasised the severe economic repercussions of their actions, highlighting the significant revenue losses suffered by the Federal Government due to the grid shutdown.
The SGF’s comments come in the wake of a nationwide strike led by the NLC and TUC, during which the National Grid was shut down on Monday and later restored on Tuesday.
The strike, aimed at pressing for a new minimum wage, also led to the disruption of essential services, including hajj flights.
Echoing Akume’s concerns, the Senate also voiced its apprehension about the ramifications of the grid shutdown.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the action as “economic sabotage” and cautioned that such drastic measures could undermine the country’s stability and progress.
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerians, despite the challenges posed by the actions of the Organised Labour.
The government remains focused on dialogue and negotiation to address the concerns of the labour unions while ensuring that critical national infrastructure and services remain uninterrupted.
The incident has sparked a broader debate on the balance between workers’ rights to protest and the need to maintain essential services for the country’s functioning.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
