By Prince Eze
Following the indefinite strike action by workers in Imo State which was ordered by the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Imo State Council of Elders has appealed to the leadership of organized labour to suspend its dispute with the Sen Hope Uzodimma led administration.
In a press statement signed by the Council’s Chief Press Secretary, Kennedy Eweama, the elders said: “After a careful appraisal of the impasse between the national leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Government of Imo State,over labour related issues,and in consideration of the need to ensure that the prevalent industrial peace and harmony in the State is not disrupted,the leadership of the Imo State Council of Elders, hereby appeals to the leadership of the NLC to suspend its dispute with the State government.
“The Council under the Chairmanship of the Obi of Obinugwu,HRM,Eze (Dr) Cletus Ilomuanya,CON,assures the NLC leadership that the suspension of the dispute would create a conducive atmosphere for meaningful dialogue with the government which would ultimately address their grievances. The Council in appealing to the conscience of the NLC leadership,urges it to take into consideration, the plight of the suffering masses who are bearing the excruciating brunt of the impasse.
“As Elders,the Council is optimistic that as a responsible, and responsive government,the Imo State government on its part, would be open to any meaningful dialogue and resolution of the labour crisis in the State in the interest of the masses.
“The Council therefore, implores the NLC to embrace Jaw- jaw rather than war-war, as there is no better alternative to industrial peace and harmony in Imo State”.
It will be recalled that NLC had ordered its members in Imo to down tools from last Wednesday midnight following alleged meddlesomeness by the Imo government.
