Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, suggested that the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and other involved groups should consider themselves fortunate that Nigeria is not under a military regime.
Labour unions shut down the national power grid as the strike led by NLC and TUC commenced, as announced by the Transmission Company of Nigeria.
On Monday, NLC and TUC launched a nationwide industrial action in objection to the Federal Government’s proposal for a N60,000 minimum wage.
The transmission company, through its spokesperson Ndidi Mbah, declared the intentional shutdown of the national power grid by the workers in a statement released on Monday morning.
In an interview with TVC News on Monday, Onanuga responded by pointing out that the country operates in a civilian regime that supports freedom of expression.
He noted that the labour leaders had gone beyond their mandate, urging them to approach their demands more responsibly.
“Labor should see itself as a partner with the Federal Government, not as an opponent,” he emphasized.
He added, “Labor should appreciate the fact that we are not in a military regime. Our current civilian regime allows for freedom of expression.”
He expressed his opinion, stating, “I believe that by shutting down the national grid, labor has crossed a line. In a time when power shortages are a concern, such actions are extreme. Shutting down airports and inconveniencing others is not justifiable. Participation in strikes should be voluntary.”
“I urge labor to act more responsibly in their responses. The demands they are making are unrealistic,” he concluded.