NLC suspends strike in Imo to ‘enable citizens vote’

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Imo state has suspended its industrial action for two weeks.

The union went on strike last week, cutting off the electricity supply in the state and the airport.

The NLC had embarked on the strike over alleged interference of the state government in its activities.

The union accused the government of using armed thugs and personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to interfere with the election of its new executives.

In a statement signed by Joe Ajaero, its president, the union said the industrial action was called off to enable residents to exercise their right to vote on March 18.

“The suspension of the strike was to ensure an enabling environment for citizens in the state to carry out their civic responsibility by exercising their franchise on the 18th of March, 2023, for the State House of Assembly elections,” Ajaero said.

“Due to persistent interventions by highly respected and well meaning Nigerians from within and outside Imo state; and especially, in order to have an enabling environment for citizens in the state to perform their civic duty on Saturday, March 18 by way of voting for State House of Assembly candidates of their choice.

“On behalf of the Nigerian Labour Congress, I hereby announce the suspension of the ongoing strike action in Imo state.”

Following the strike, Hope Uzodinma, the governor, sacked Ford Ozumba, commissioner for labour and productivity.