Mohammed Shosanya
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, expressed his disappointment in the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress.
He accused them of indirect involvement in the Nigerian political system.
According to him, a situation where Labour Unions instigate the people to protest, barely nine months into his administration was totally unacceptable, warning both groups that they were not the only voice to be heard in the country.
The President spoke while inaugurating the first phase of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line project, a 37km project expected to reduce travel time and improve transportation and logistics in the state.
“Some labour unions should understand that no matter how we cling to our freedom and rights, to call for strikes within the first nine months of a new administration is unacceptable.
”If you want to directly participate in the electoral process, wait until 2027, if not, maintain the peace. Labour is not the only voice of Nigeria,” the President added.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating corruption,calling on labour unions to refrain from disruptive actions.
The Nigeria Labour Congress had mobilised workers across some states of the federation and the FCT to protest what they termed unbearable economic hardship, following the removal of fuel subsidy.
They had also accused the Federal Government of reneging on the implementation of palliative measures that would cushion the effect of the subsidy removal policy, while also slamming a 14 days ultimatum to the authorities.
The President witnessed the signing of the contract for Phase 2 of the LRMT Red Line project by the Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, and the Chairman of CCECC Nigeria Limited, Jason Zhang.
Before departing for a state visit to Qatar, Tinubu embarked on an inaugural train ride from the Ikeja station to the Agege station, accompanied by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor of the State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; some state governors; members of the Federal and State Executive Councils; members of the Federal and State Legislative Assemblies; Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, and a select group of journalists.
At a train station in Ikeja, Tinubu directed the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’idu Alkali, to ensure that the federal and subnational governments strengthen their collaboration to provide reliable, efficient, and affordable transportation systems for all Nigerians across the country.
”It is my singular pleasure to inaugurate the first phase of the LRMT Red Line to the glory of God Almighty and for the benefit of the people.
”Today, I am seriously honoured that I am a Lagosian and the first to be President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.