NLC’s senseless picketing of airport in Imo

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) recently went ahead to block Air Peace and other airlines from operating in Imo. The move came as a result of a disagreement with the Imo state government.

It’s absolutely mind-boggling that these are people who are supposed to be representing the interests of the workers and citizens, yet their recent actions show a complete lack of responsibility and foresight.

One of the most glaring aspects of this unfortunate incident is the NLC’s blatant disregard for national service. Air Peace, one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, had taken up the noble responsibility of evacuating Nigerians from Sudan, a country marred by conflict and instability.

This humanitarian effort should have been appreciated and encouraged, considering the risks involved and the assistance it provided to fellow citizens in desperate need. They were doing something noble, helping fellow citizens in desperate need, and what do they get in return? The NLC shuts them down! It’s a slap in the face to all the hard work and risks involved in carrying out such humanitarian efforts.

The NLC’s decision to halt Air Peace’s operations in Imo state demonstrates a lack of empathy and a narrow focus on political battles at the expense of national interests.

But it’s not just about the NLC’s disregard for national service. Their actions have caused significant economic damage too. We’re talking about losses of over 700 million naira in a single day! And it’s not just the airlines that suffer.

The entire travel and tourism industry takes a hit, along with all the businesses that depend on it, like hotels, transportation services, and local vendors.

This kind of reckless decision-making sends a terrible message to potential investors who might think twice about putting their money into Nigeria.

And let’s not forget about the ordinary people who are directly affected by this. Travel and connectivity are essential for business, personal, and medical reasons.

By denying them the right to travel freely and conveniently, the NLC is causing major disruptions and hindering the progress of Imo state. It’s like they don’t understand the importance of seamless connectivity in today’s globalized world.

The last time I checked the airport and airlines don’t belong to the Imo state government. If you have a grouse with the state government, the ordinary people are not supposed to suffer for the sins of the state government.

I remember when electricity workers shut down the national grid. How can you shut down the national grid? to me that’s an act of treason. In a season of worsening insecurity, you put the whole country in darkness. I expected the security agencies then arrest those workers for treason. You can jeopardize national security because of your selfish interest. It is not done anywhere in the world.

Sure, the NLC has the right to express its grievances and engage in negotiations, but sabotaging national service and causing economic losses is just plain unacceptable.

Our labour unions need to step up and show responsible leadership. Instead of resorting to actions that harm citizens and the nation as a whole, they should prioritize peaceful negotiations, mediation, and dialogue. There has to be a better way to resolve conflicts without causing such widespread damage.

The NLC needs to realise that their actions have consequences beyond their immediate grievances. They have a responsibility to protect and promote the interests of Nigerian workers and citizens. It’s time for them to put aside their political battles and focus on the greater good. They need to create an environment that fosters progress, prosperity, and unity.

It’s disappointing to see the NLC making such shortsighted decisions. They have the potential to be a powerful force for positive change, but they’re letting their own agenda get in the way. It’s time for them to reassess their priorities and remember why they exist in the first place: to serve the people.