The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, has issued an appeal to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), urging them to exercise caution regarding their proposed nationwide strike scheduled to begin on Tuesday, October 3.
News About Nigeria gathered that the monarch emphasised the importance of the Federal Government avoiding actions that could overstretch the Nigerian populace.
Following a deadlock in negotiations with the Federal Government, the labour unions had called on their members to embark on a nationwide strike next week.
In a statement marking Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day Anniversary, Oba Lekan Balogun, through his media assistant, Oladele Ogunsola, called for dialogue between the labour unions and the government.
He stressed the need for openness and understanding in addressing the contentious issues, considering the potential negative impact of a prolonged strike on the country’s economy.
The Olubadan urged the labour leaders to reflect on the consequences of past strikes, citing the example of the lengthy strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and its lasting impact on students who lost an entire academic session.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by workers and the general population due to economic difficulties, Oba Lekan Balogun encouraged cautious optimism.
He expressed confidence in the ability of President Bola Tinubu to deliver on his campaign promises and called for patience and prayers.
The monarch congratulated political leaders, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, as well as Nigerians in general, on the occasion of Nigeria’s Independence Day.
He urged them to engage in dialogue with labour leaders to find a mutually beneficial solution, emphasizing that problems cannot be solved with further problems.
Oba Lekan Balogun also extended his congratulations to Nigerians and encouraged them to express gratitude to God for the country’s continued unity despite various challenges.
