Sacked 3,000 Workers: NLC Prepares to Shutdown Imo State

It is likely going to be a serious showdown between the Nigeria Labour Congress and Governor Rochas Okorocha who sacked over 3,000 workers allegedly owed between 3-15 months salaries.

Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, yesterday insisted that there would be a total shut down of Imo State once the 14-day ultimatum issued to the state government to recall the 3000 sacked workers and tackle their unpaid salaries and other benefits expires.

It was gathered that Imo State government allegedly owe workers of the state between three and 15 months salaries and other benefits. However, a member of the 6-man action committee set up by NLC to handle the Imo crisis and President of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, Mr. Igwe Achese, has said the only thing that would make them change their mind is if the government rescinds it decision.

Achese who is also a Deputy President of the Joe Ajaero-led faction of NLC, said: “Like we made it clear when we handed down the ultimatum on Friday, January 22, once the ultimatum expires, we will take action and there will be a total shut down of the state. You are aware that both factions of Congress are on the same page in the issue because an injury to one is an injury to all. It was in that regard that a meeting of leaders of the factions in Abuja, set up a 6 man action committee on Imo which I am a member.

“We have it very clear that once the action starts, we will stop fuel and electricity supplies, banks and shops will be closed among others."

Ayuba Wabba faction of NLC at its National Executive Council, NEC, meeting last Friday in Lagos, had threatened to use Imo State as an example to show governors why they should treat their workers well.

He said: “Congress resolved that any state governor who violates the sacred duty of regular payment of salaries, gratuities and pensions will incur the wrath of workers.Congress also resolved to mobilize to any state that retrenches workers because workers should not be made the scapegoats of the downturn in the economy. The benefits of political employees are not touched. They are paid regular huge sums that are not even approved by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

“In line with the Congress’ philosophy of an injury to one is an injury to all, Congress also resolved to mobilize to Imo State to shut it down as a response to Governor Okorocha’s consistent anti-labour policies, impunity and retrenchment of workers, in spite of his promises to the leadership of the Congress that he would not take such decisions. Congress also resolved to take a national action in respect of Imo if necessary.

“Congress notes that Governor Okorocha has raised a private militia which he has armed to the teeth and they are at present inflicting injuries on innocent workers. Congress considers this as illegal and resolves to make a report to the IGP, warning that in the event that Okorocha violates the law by unleashing the militia again on workers, there would be consequences.”