Regina Otokpa 
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has strongly refutes Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio’s recent claims and accusations that the indefinite nationwide strike embarked upon by the NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) constitutes economic sabotage.
A statement signed by NLC’s Head, Information and Public Affairs, Benson Upah, yesterday in Abuja, described the Senate President’s claims and accusations as baseless and deeply troubling for Nigerian patriots and democracy advocates.
The statement reads: “The strike, initiated on June 3rd, was in response to the federal government’s refusal to conclude the national minimum wage negotiation reverse electricity tariff hikes, and end discriminatory consumer classifications.
This legally conducted strike reflects the frustration of Nigerian workers facing economic hardships and deteriorating working conditions. “Senator Akpabio’s statements undermine the democratic principles the Senate professes to uphold.
The National Assembly, being the closest arm of government to the people, should understand the people’s sentiments. This ought to guide their actions and pronouncements accordingly.
“Strikes are not only legal but a civic duty and a critical tool for holding those in authority and power accountable.
It is a democratic right, essential for preventing dictatorship and social collapse. “For the past 25 years, the political elite wilfully sabotaged Nigeria through acts of corruption and abuse of power, not the workers. The true economic saboteurs.
