Strike: Labour Union Shuts Down National Assembly, Federal Secretariat

In compliance with the indefinite strike action declared by Organised Labour, the Parliamentary Staff Union of Nigeria (PASAN) on Monday shut down the National Assembly complex in Abuja, preventing workers and visitors from gaining access.

The two gates of the complex were closed, and electricity and water supply to the buildings housing the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as other facilities, were disconnected by the union. This led to the cancellation of committee activities scheduled for the day, including a revenue monitoring hearing by the House Committee on Finance.

At the Federal Secretariat, which houses various ministries, including Labour and Employment, Communication, and Niger Delta, union leaders ensured that no staff was working. They went in and out of the building to monitor compliance with the strike action.

The strike, which began on Monday, is part of Organised Labour’s demand for a living wage for Nigerian workers. The union has vowed to continue the strike until their demands are met.

The shutdown of the National Assembly and Federal Secretariat is a significant development in the ongoing labour dispute, which has already affected various sectors, including the national grid, which was shut down by electricity workers on Sunday.

The strike has also affected auxiliary workers at the National Assembly complex, who reported for duty but were unable to gain access. Union officials were seen ensuring compliance with the strike action, and no staff was allowed to work.

The Nation gathered that the strike is expected to continue until Organised Labour’s demands are met. The union is seeking a living wage for Nigerian workers, which they believe is necessary to address the country’s economic challenges.

In a related development, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) has faulted the planned nationwide strike by labour, arguing that it is illegal and unconstitutional. However, labour leaders have vowed to continue the strike, saying it is the only way to get the government’s attention.

The strike has also raised concerns about the potential impact on the country’s economy and the welfare of Nigerian workers. As the strike continues, many are watching to see how the government will respond to the union’s demands and how the situation will unfold.

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