- By Halimah Olamide
the proposed strike is a breach of an order of the National Industrial Court
Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi has warned civil servants against joining the ongoing national strike.
He said those who do so risk going to jail for six months.
The minister’s threat comes amidst first day of the national strike declared by the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.
Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Fagbemi said Section 18 of the Trade Disputes Act requires a worker employed in any essential services to give their employer 15 days notice before ceasing their services and any who did not comply would be liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment for six months.
He said the fundamental importance of the 15-day notice is underscored by the fact that Sections 41 and 42(1)(b) of the Act criminalize non-compliance with the provision.
Fagbemi also said the proposed strike is a breach of an order of the National Industrial Court and ongoing mediators’ settlement efforts over issues connected with minimum wage.
Workers are demanding N494,000 as the new minimum wage.
The Federal government has offered N60,000 which is 100% of the current N30,000 minimum wage.