In response to a statement issued by President Bola Tinubu, advising labour unions to halt their protests and participate in the political process in 2027, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has responded.
Tinubu delivered these remarks on Thursday in Lagos during the inauguration of the Lagos Red Line project.
He remarked, “The labor union needs to recognize that despite our commitment to our freedoms and rights… initiating a strike within nine months of an administration is unacceptable.
“If you wish to engage in the electoral process, wait until 2027. Otherwise, maintain peace; you do not represent the sole voice of Nigerians.”
In reaction to the President’s statement on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, TUC President Festus Osifo emphasized that members of his union are not politicians and reiterated their right to protest.
He expressed, “I heard that statement yesterday where he suggested that we should wait until 2027 if we intend to contest elections. Speaking for the Trade Union Congress, we are not politicians; we are unionists. It is our prerogative to protest – a fundamental right of every Nigerian.
“We have no qualms with protests; when necessary, individuals will exercise their rights and protests will ensue. Regarding waiting until 2027 to engage in politics, I don’t believe that is something we should involve ourselves in because I am not affiliated with any political party.
“My concern lies with the well-being of my members and indeed all Nigerians. Therefore, the President's statement seems foreign to us because the right to protest and strike belongs to the workers.
“There are underlying factors; the decision to protest or strike is preceded by certain issues that must be addressed.”
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