Femi Falana, a human rights lawyer, has asserted that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliates are free to carry out their scheduled strike and protest on August 2.
Falana asserts that the activity does not constitute contempt of court.
This was stated in a letter titled “Re- NLC in contempt of Court” sent on July 28 to the Permanent Secretary/Solicitor-General, Federal Ministry of Justice, from the Falana Falana Chambers, attorneys to the NLC.
He asserts that Nigerian workers’ decision to take part in nonviolent protests is made in the interest of the general populace and in opposition to the nation’s escalating economic crisis.
He said, “You were reported to have accused the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress of treating the order of the National Industrial Court with contempt.
“Contrary to your unwarranted allegation, the Nigeria Labour Congress does not intend to disobey the ex parte order of the National Industrial Court.
“And to the effect that ‘the defendants/respondents are hereby restrained from embarking on the planned Industrial Action/or strike of any nature, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice dated June 5’.
NAN reports that the National Industrial Court in Abuja on June 5, restrained the NLC and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, from embarking on their planned strike to protest the unilateral removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.