The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), recently emphasized to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) that a standing court order prohibits the unions and their affiliates from proceeding with the planned strike.
The National Industrial Court of Nigeria, through an interim order granted by Justice B. B. Kanyip on November 10, has issued a restraining order.
This action was taken in response to an ex-parte application presented to the court by the Federal Government of Nigeria, along with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, as confirmed by Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip, the President of the Court.
Justice Kanyip cited the authority vested in sections 17 and 19 of the National Industrial Court Act to enforce the restraining order against the Labor entities.
In a statement released on Monday, Kamarudeen Ogundele, a media aide to the Minister of Justice, conveyed that the labor unions have been duly served the court order. Consequently, they are obligated to comply and submit themselves to the authority of the court, which is actively handling the particulars of the case.
“Any action taken contrary to the order will be tantamount to contempt of court,” warns the statement
“We use this medium to urge the unions to respect the court order and adhere to the principle of the rule of law. There is no need to resort to self-help.
“We urge workers to report for duties and not to entertain any fear as their safety is guaranteed and will be protected within the ambit of law.”
