Police speak harsh words and call on unions to suspend strike

The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has made an urgent appeal to unions to shelve their planned nationwide strike.

In a press release signed by the Police Press Secretary, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police stressed the need to adhere to legal procedures to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

With this statement, the unions responded to their recent declaration of intent to go on strike in the interests of all workers.

The statement reads:
The Nigeria Police Force takes note of the recent announcement by the trade unions of their intention to stage a nationwide strike and understands that trade unions have the right to engage in such actions to represent the interests of all workers. However, it wishes to stress the importance of respecting existing laws governing such activities and calls for caution to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the country.

“In light of the Federal Government’s recent statement that the planned attack was illegal and premature, the Nigerian Police considers this action as a potential catalyst for increasing tensions and political instability.

“The NPF hereby calls on the unions to continue the ongoing consultations in the tripartite committee, which focus on setting a new minimum wage, and to put the planned strike on hold, as such a decision is essential to avert untold suffering for the people and to maintain order and stability in our country.”

The Nigerian Police Force assures the public that extensive forces are deployed across the country to ensure that citizens can carry out their legal duties without hindrance.

“The public as a whole is therefore called upon to remain calm and to carry on with their legitimate daily activities, while trade unions are called upon to act responsibly and in accordance with the law, giving priority to dialogue and legal channels to resolve the existing grievances.”