The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to halt its planned nationwide protest, describing it as “contempt of court”.
In response to the economic challenges confronting the nation, the NLC announced a nationwide protest slated for February 27 and 28. This decision followed a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government regarding the prevailing hardships. However, in a letter dated February 23, 2024, addressed to the NLC counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), Fagbemi reminded the NLC of a court order restraining the union from engaging in any industrial action.
The letter stated:
“I wish to note that the government has substantially and reasonably complied with the items in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), and it is only appropriate and equitable for organized labour to further engage with the government to ensure the full implementation of the same, particularly in areas affected by unforeseen challenges.
“May I, therefore, request that you kindly urge and advise your clients to desist from self-help by shelving the proposed protests, which is contrary to the mediatory engagements leading to the execution of the MoU. It amounts to undermining the existing restraining court order and could lead to disruption of public service, order, and safety.”
