A social commentator in
Rivers State, Mr Andrew Ajayi has urged the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) to allow the wind of democracy to pass through it.
Ajayi said this in his lecture entitled: Working Class Democratic Consolidation Economic Revolution, charting a new course for National Rebuilt. The way forward at a get-together organised by the Rivers State Council of Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation Civil Service, Technical and Recreational Employees (AUPCTRE) in Port Harcourt.
He said that the situation where out-going labour leaders imposed their own candidate on the congress does not conform to the tenet of democracy.
Ajayi noted that the balkanization of the labour unions into factions throughout the country is not advancing the interest of workers.
He stressed the need for the working class in Nigeria to cultivate positive attitude towards the revival of the Nigerian economy which according to him is presently sick.
The social commentator also warned against allowing sit tight rulers to hold the labour unions hostage.
He also charged workers not to relent in helping the government transform its policy vision into reality.
Earlier, the state chairman of AUPCTRE, Mr Henry Urombo, had said that the union decided for a low key celebration following the poor condition of workers.
He described AUPCTRE as one of the fastest growing labour unions in the state in terms of membership, noting that at the moment, the union can boost of over 20,000 members.
Also speaking, the state Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Mr Chika Onuegbu has assured workers in the state of the government readiness to settle all outstanding labour issues before May 29.
He said this in a Radio programme in Port Harcourt at the weekend.
Onuegbu also said that all check off dues to labour unions will be paid this week.
John Bibor & Mercy Gift
The Rivers State Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA) receiving information, education and communication materials from the Chairman, OBSTEC, Barrister Florence Fiberesima during advocacy meeting held in Port Harcourt, yesterday. Photo: Sogbeba Dokubo