Strike: Public school students sent home in Ondo

Pupils and students of public schools in Akure, the Ondo State capital, were on Tuesday sent home following the directive by the Organised Labour that workers should embark on indefinite strike.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) at a Joint National Executive Council on Monday directed all affiliate unions and workers across the country to withdraw their services with effect from 12 midnight Nov. 13.

Our correspondent reported that scores of public schools pupils and students were seen leaving their school premises for their various homes.

It was reported that filling stations, however, were open for business in the metropolis.

Although, most offices in the state secretariat, Alagbaka, were opened, workers were not attending to visitors and government business.

While some banks were also opened for business and some have their gates locked.

Speaking with NAN, Mr Wasiu Adeyemi, a bank customer, expressed disappointment in the selective attendance by the banks.

He said that the banks only allowed those that came for deposit, while those with complaints were not allowed entry.

“I was in the bank this morning and to my surprise, I was not allowed to enter until I told the security man in the bank that I wanted to deposit a cheque of N2 million before I was allowed,” he lamented.

Mr Clement Fatuase, Chairman, Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ondo State, who spoke with our reporter, expressed optimism about the ongoing industrial action.

Fatuase, who explained that strike, being the commencement, was still complied with in the state, said that other affiliate unions and workers would join the strike as it progress.

“At least today is day one. The compliance is okay. The strike is at least, averagely effective.

“Anyway, we are issuing a press release as regards the strike,” he said.