Despite threats by the Ayuba Wabba faction of NLC to continue with its planned strike action today May 18th, the Federal Government has advised all workers in the Civil service to resume for work today, saying the no work no pay rule will be invoked in all ministries, agencies and department. Speaking after a meeting with labor yesterday May 17th, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal said:
"The National Industrial Court has given an injunction that no strike by NLC and TUC should hold tomorrow (today). It is therefore clear that anyone embarking on strike tomorrow (today) is doing so illegally and government is assuring all Nigerians to come out and do their jobs tomorrow (today). It the duty of government to provide security for her citizens and anyone who tries to coerce any worker to do their bidding would be made to face the law of the land. We had full cooperation with the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria and they said they are not going on strike.For them, it is a complete return to work tomorrow (Wednesday).
"It is not the same with the NLC however. They have two factions, one agreed completely with the position of the TUC. Government, therefore, calls upon and advises all workers to respect the laws of the land and to desist from participating in an illegal action. Government undertakes to guarantee the safety of workers and their workplaces, and expects that normal work will continue in the interest of the nation.
"Accordingly, security agencies have been directed to ensure unimpeded access to offices, workplaces and markets. Accordingly, all ministers, permanent secretaries and heads of government agencies are hereby directed to invoke the provision of ‘no work no pay’ in respect of any staff member who absents himself or herself from work to join the strike. Attendance registers are required to be opened in all Ministries, Departments and Agencies.”he said