In a decisive move, the National Industrial Court in Abuja has issued a restraining order against the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress, and their affiliates, preventing them from proceeding with the planned nationwide strike slated for November 14, 2023.
This legal intervention comes in the wake of an extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held by the unions on Tuesday in Abuja, during which they declared a total nationwide strike in response to the alleged assault on NLC National President, Joe Ajaero, in Imo State last week.
The Federal Government of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Minister of Justice swiftly filed an ex-parte application, urging the court to halt the unions’ proposed strike. The application emphasized the potential adverse impact on law-abiding citizens and businesses, citing the recent demonstration where the unions obstructed entrances to major airports in the country.
Representing the Federal Government and the AGF, Tijani Gazali SAN argued during the proceedings on Friday that the planned strike could lead to untold hardship and a breach of peace. Urging the court to intervene, he highlighted the necessity of preventing disruptions that could destabilize the country.
In his ruling, Justice Benedict Kanyip, the president of the Court, referenced sections 17 and 19 of the National Industrial Court Act. He asserted the court’s authority to issue a restraining order to maintain peace and tranquility in the country.
“It is within the power of the court to intervene by way of restraining order to ensure peace and tranquility,” Justice Kanyip stated.
The court’s decision includes directing the restraining order to be prominently displayed on the wall of the Labour House, the last known address of the defendants, to inform them of the court’s position. Additionally, the order, along with the originating and other processes, will be served on the defendants through publication in two major national dailies. This legal move underscores the ongoing tensions between the labor unions and the government, raising concerns about the potential repercussions for the country’s stability and its citizens.
