FG Steps Back from Contempt Proceedings Against Labour Unions

In a bid to avert a potential nationwide industrial strike, the Nigerian federal government has reversed its decision to initiate contempt proceedings against the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).

The government, through the Federal Ministry of Justice, had threatened to take the labour leaders to the National Industrial Court of Nigeria for contempt, accusing them of disregarding court orders restraining them from initiating industrial action.

The issue arose after the NLC and TUC staged public protests on August 2nd, 2023, in response to the removal of fuel subsidies. The government had warned that it would take legal action against the labour leaders for failing to comply with court orders.

In response to the government’s threat, the NLC held an emergency National Executive Council Meeting in Abuja and issued a warning that a nationwide strike would be declared if its leaders were charged with contempt.

However, in a recent letter addressed to Femi Falana, the lead counsel to the NLC, the Solicitor General of the Federation, Mrs. B.E. Jeddy-Agba, conveyed that the Federal Ministry of Justice had withdrawn the contemplated contempt proceedings.

The letter, dated August 7, highlighted the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and the decision of the labour unions to call off their industrial action following meetings with the President and the National Assembly’s leadership. As a result of these developments, the Ministry decided not to proceed with the contempt proceedings.

Jeddy-Agba’s letter emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to preserving the integrity of the court and preventing disruptions to public facilities.

She pointed out that despite previous exchanges between the Ministry and Falana on adhering to court orders, the labour unions went ahead with the protests, leading to work disruptions and the gate of the National Assembly being pulled down.

The Solicitor General clarified that the issuance of Form 48 was merely the initial step in contempt proceedings and that the situation had evolved. The government’s withdrawal from the contempt proceedings underscores its intention to prevent further escalation and maintain a working relationship with the labour unions.