Lagos Government Orders Striking Broadcasting Workers to Resume Work Immediately
By Okafor Joseph Afam | January 14, 2025
The Lagos State Government has called on all broadcasting workers to disregard the ongoing strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and return to their posts immediately. The strike stems from grievances over the non-implementation of the N85,000 minimum wage approved by the government for employees at state-owned broadcasting stations.
Three weeks ago, workers from Lagos Television, Eko FM/Radio Lagos, and Lagos Traffic Radio, under the umbrella of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), had notified management of their intent to embark on the industrial action. On Monday, the NLC Lagos chapter orchestrated the shutdown of these stations, halting normal operations.
In response, Afolabi Ayantayo, Commissioner for Establishments and Training, condemned the actions of the labour unions, accusing them of violating existing laws and employing aggressive tactics. A statement issued by Ayantayo on Monday read:
“Labour unions – NLC, RATTAWU, and NUJ – earlier today forcefully shut down Lagos Television, Radio Lagos/Eko FM, and Lagos Traffic Radio. They tore down doors and switched off transmitters in a disturbing show of violence – all in the name of a strike.”
The government argued that the unions disrupted discussions meant to resolve the workers’ grievances. Ayantayo disclosed that a meeting was held on January 8, 2025, between government representatives and union leaders to address the demands, but the unions prematurely resorted to shutting down the stations and preventing staff from performing their duties.
The statement further called on the unions to desist from intimidating workers who wish to carry out their lawful responsibilities, emphasizing that the strike should not be turned into an attack on agencies and their personnel.
“Workers of the three broadcast stations are enjoined to report for work and avoid any confrontation with the union members,” the statement added.
The strike has thrown the state’s broadcasting services into disarray, with Lagosians expressing concerns over the disruptions. Meanwhile, RATTAWU and NLC leaders have insisted that their demands must be met before operations resume, setting the stage for what could be a protracted standoff.
The Lagos State government, however, reiterated its commitment to addressing workers’ welfare while urging union leaders to embrace dialogue over conflict.
