The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has issued a stern warning to workers contemplating participation in the indefinite strike called by the Labour Unions.

On June 2, 2024, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized that individuals defying the call to work could face a six-month imprisonment.

Despite the National Assembly's attempts to prevent the strike, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) are proceeding with their action over the dispute concerning the new minimum wage.

Fagbemi highlighted that under Section 18 of the Trade Disputes Act, workers in essential services are required to give a 15-day notice before withdrawing their services. Non-compliance could lead to penalties, including imprisonment.

The federal government, he noted, is actively involved in tripartite negotiations to finalize a new national minimum wage.

However, as reported by Daily Trust, these discussions have yet to reach a conclusion, rendering the strike action contrary to an existing National Industrial Court order and the ongoing mediation process.

Fagbemi reminded the public of the interim injunction issued on June 5, 2023, which prohibits the NLC and TUC from initiating any form of industrial action.

He said, “You are further invited to recall the pendency of the interim injunctive order granted on 5th June 2023, which order restrained both Nigeria Labour Congress und Trade Union Congress from embarking on any industrial action or strike of any nature."