The streets of Osogbo, Osun, witnessed an unusual scene as students in public schools were sent home on Tuesday due to the nationwide strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress , NLC, and the Trade Union Congress , TUC.
The impact of the strike rippled through various sectors, with public schools, banks, and government offices experiencing disruptions.
At CAC Grammar School, Gbodofon, Osogbo, the gates were left wide open, and students streamed out of the school premises. Meanwhile, teachers gathered under a tree, engaging in discussions.
The sight of students heading home became a common scene as public primary and secondary schools participated in the nationwide strike.
In the heart of Osogbo, some banks chose not to open their doors to customers, reflecting the impact of the labor unrest.
The atmosphere at the state secretariat in Abere mirrored the subdued state of affairs, with deserted offices and only a few workers navigating the premises.
A staffer from the secretariat, speaking anonymously, noted that the strike had not fully materialized, contrasting it with previous nationwide strikes where gates were typically blocked by NLC and other union members.
However, security personnel were strategically stationed at the secretariat entrance and other key locations in Osogbo.
Mrs. Modupeola Oyedele, the Osun State NLC Caretaker Chairperson, confirmed the compliance with the directive from the NLC and TUC headquarters. She clarified that the strike did not involve street protests but rather urged workers to abstain from work.
Oyedele mentioned that public schools had sent students home in adherence to the strike, acknowledging that the late-night directive resulted in some students being turned back upon reaching school.
While the labor unions maintained their stance, labeling the strike as a means to demand workers’ rights, the government deemed it illegal.
The clash of perspectives between the unions and the government added another layer of complexity to the unfolding situation in Osogbo and other parts of the country affected by the nationwide strike.
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