In a display of collective discontent, members of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) took to the streets of Lagos to voice their protest against the Lagos State government’s recent actions.
The demonstration centered around the government’s takeover of motor parks and the proscription of the Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), accompanied by the confiscation of RTEAN’s vehicles.
The peaceful protest commenced in the early morning, originating at Ikeja roundabout and culminating at the Lagos State House of Assembly.
At the Assembly, the demonstrators were greeted by several lawmakers, with Hon. Adedamola Kasunmu, the Deputy Majority Leader representing Ikeja Constituency 2, leading the reception.
During this event, TUC President Festus Osifo explained the necessity of the protest, citing the government’s resistance to court judgments and the union’s pleas.
According to Osifo, the proscription of RTEAN, which occurred last year, was followed by the seizure of all their equipment, offices, and vehicles by the Lagos State government. He emphasized that such actions were unacceptable.
Osifo clarified the union’s stance, stating, “Trade unionism is not within the concurrent list, meaning that a state government lacks the authority to proscribe a trade union; this falls solely under the jurisdiction of the federal government.”
The TUC had pursued a court judgment that clearly affirmed the Lagos State Government’s lack of authority to proscribe trade unions.
They had also requested the state government to reopen RTEAN’s seized office and return their confiscated vehicles. Osifo asserted that the government had not complied with these requests.
In response to questions from journalists, Osifo emphasized that, as of now, the state government had not obtained a stay of execution from the court.
He declared the union’s intent to make their voices heard.
However, the Lagos State government, represented by the Commissioner of Information, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, contended that they had filed an appeal against the judgment and had a pending application for a stay of execution.
He argued that the protest would contravene the rule of law, which expects both parties to maintain the status quo until the application for a stay of execution and appeal is resolved.
Omotosho urged the TUC and RTEAN to opt for dialogue, emphasizing that it would be more beneficial for the state’s economic and social well-being.