The federal government has invited the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) for talks today aimed at ending the ongoing nationwide strike. The meeting was called by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA).

The NLC and TUC commenced the indefinite industrial action on Tuesday in response to the alleged attack on NLC President Joe Ajaero in Owerri, Imo State on November 1st.

Beyond the alleged assault, unions are demanding resolution on outstanding wage arrears, improper retiree dismissals as “ghost pensioners”, and non-compliance with minimum wage laws in Imo. The state government has been accused of declaring thousands of workers and retirees as ghosts improperly.

The alleged assault on Ajaero has drawn strong condemnation nationwide. With the strike paralyzing key sectors, the NSA has stepped in to broker talks between the unions and government in hopes of reaching an agreement to end the shutdown.