NLC STRIKE: THOUSANDS OF NIGERIAN PILGRIMS AT RISK OF MISSING HAJJ 2024 – HAJJ OPERATORS LAMENT
By Ajape Sefiu A.
…Urges TUC, NLC to Re-consider Timing of Industrial Action
The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria, AHUO, has called on NLC and TUC that Nigerian pilgrims are at risk of missing 2024 Hajj due to the ongoing indefinite strike declared by the organized labour.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday, signed by Abdulateef Ekundayo Yusuf, National President, AHUON.
Recall that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) embarked on a nationwide industrial action on Monday, following the Federal Government’s failure to meet the demands of Organised Labour on the minimum wage.
The industrial action led to shutting down of Airports, institutions, banks and other commercial sectors.
AHUON said it understands the Organized Labour’s position of fighting for better working conditions for Nigerian workers, but the timing is unfavorable.
Furthermore, the Hajj operators, in its statement, said the commencement of the industrial action is ill-timed and will deprive pilgrims of carrying out one of the most fundamental pillars of Islam, which is performing pilgrimage.
AHUON statement reads, “The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) understands the position of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to press for a better working condition for the Nigerian worker we as well feel the pains of all Nigerians at this trying period.
“However, we strongly feel the declaration and commencement of the nationwide strike action is ill-timed and unfavorable for Nigerian Muslim community. We would like to call the attention of the Labour Congress to the impact of the strike on one of the most fundamental pillars of Islam which is Hajj which is followed by Eid kabir festival nationwide and the financial implications the strike will have on Muslims who have saved for years to be able to embark on this holy journey.
“Additionally, the financial loss to our members will run into Billions of naira having completed all necessary arrangements of accommodation, transportation, feeding in both Mecca and Madinah, including issued tickets and visas for thousands of people (of which payments are non-refundable) who will be affected by disruption of both local and international flights operations
“We hereby call on the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress to please re-consider their stand on the timing of the strike action in the interest of Nigerian Muslims who form majority of their membership the strike until after Hajj to avert huge financial loss that will be borne by average Nigerian.
“We trust our plea will meet favourable consideration from the leadership of the two Unions as they’re sensitive to our religious diversity, it added.”
