Ogun Government Offices Shut as Workers Begin Indefinite Strike

Public offices across Ogun State were deserted on Wednesday as workers fully complied with an indefinite strike declared by organised labour unions.

The action has crippled operations in ministries, schools, courts, and other government institutions.

The strike was initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), following the state government’s failure to address a list of unresolved issues. These include unpaid pension deductions, delayed implementation of the national minimum wage, lack of promotion for workers, and the non-payment of leave allowances going back eight years.

Schools in Abeokuta, including Asero High School, Egba High School, Lisabi Grammar School, and Baptist Boys High School, were locked. Teachers and students stayed away, with some students who had returned for examinations being turned back.

A teacher at one of the affected schools said students had returned to continue exams after the public holiday declared on Tuesday but were told to return home due to the strike. He called on the state government to resolve the dispute quickly to avoid further disruption to students’ education.

The State House of Assembly, Magistrates’ Courts, and High Court were also under lock and key. Only security guards were seen at the entrances as judicial staff joined the strike action.

The unions had earlier held a congress at the Arcade Ground in Oke-Mosan, where they resolved to press forward with the strike until their demands are addressed. They also stated that no representative would be accepted in place of the governor, Dapo Abiodun, in negotiations.

In a related warning, the NLC has said it will lead a nationwide resistance if the federal government goes ahead with plans to increase electricity tariffs.

As the strike continues, pressure mounts on the Ogun State government to meet with union leaders and find a solution before the situation escalates.