End Strike Now, Ex-Civil Service Boss Tells Labour

Irked by the hardship occasioned by the nationwide strike declared by Labour unions in Nigeria, the former chairman of Rivers State Civil Service Commission, Chief Joseph Abulokwe has called for immediate suspension of the strike.

Chief Abulokwe who lamented the negative multiplier-effect of Labour reaction to the fuel subsidy withdrawal, noted that the country as well as the ordinary Nigerians would be worse off at the end of the strike and the accompanying protests.

He regretted that vital sectors of the economy were grounded, some establishments destroyed or vandalised just as human lives were lost in what he considered was avoidable.

Abulokwe was particularly disappointed that his visit to the Port Harcourt International Airport for flight inquiries yielded no fruits owing to the prevailing situation and called on Labour to show understanding call off strike and enter into positive dialogue with the Federal Government.

According to the elder statesman, the Federal Government meant well for Nigerians by oil subsidy withdrawal which he noted would benefit Nigeria and Nigerians in future.

Though he acknowledged the right of Labour to embark on strike, he said the time has come for both Labour and Federal Government to shift grounds and give peace a chance.

Meanwhile, as well meaning Nigerians continue to intervene to end the impasse between the Government and Labour, the nationwide strike declared by Nigeria Labour Congress and its affiliate unions entered its fifth day while the masses suffer unquantifiable difficulties.