NLC Orders Nationwide Strike Mobilisation against Dangote

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has ordered full-scale mobilisation of its affiliate unions for a nationwide strike against what it described as Dangote Group’s “deliberate anti-worker crusade” and disregard for Nigeria’s labour laws.

The directive, issued in an internal memo signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, yesterday, said the time for “pleading and fruitless dialogue” with the conglomerate was over, adding that the moment had come for “decisive, collective action.”

The memo read: “The ongoing disputes with PENGASSAN and NUPENG are only symptoms of a deeper problem, a systemic anti-labour policy of union-busting, worker exploitation and disregard for the rule of law that defines the Group’s industrial relations practices.

“For too long, the Dangote Group has operated like a state within a state, flouting Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, violating ILO Conventions 87 and 98, and treating our labour laws with contempt. Its facilities have become plantations of exploitation where workers’ dignity is deliberately crushed in pursuit of profit for a few.

“The time for pleading and fruitless dialogue is over. The moment for decisive, collective action is now. All affiliate unions are, hereby, placed on immediate and full alert, begin vigorous and comprehensive unionisation of all workers within Dangote facilities under your jurisdiction. This is a strategic priority.

“Commence preparations to mobilise members and resources for full-scale, decisive engagement against Dangote Group’s anti-labour stance.

“To enforce the directive, each affiliate union has been instructed to immediately set up an action mobilisation committee and liaise with the NLC national secretariat within 72 hours to coordinate strategy, logistics and communication. Unity of purpose and action is non-negotiable.’’