The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) has condemned the recently unveiled National Industrial Relations Policy by the Federal Government, describing it as a violation of workers’ rights.
In a statement jointly signed by National Chairman, Mr. Ado Minjibir, and National Secretary, Mr. Martins Egbanubi, JOHESU expressed concern over comments attributed to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, following the Federal Executive Council meeting of 31 July.
According to the union, the policy undermines the fundamental rights of workers to freedom of association and to embark on lawful strikes—rights enshrined in the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention 87 of 1948, which Nigeria has ratified and domesticated.
“JOHESU is particularly worried that the policy targets workers and their trade union organisations. It is regrettable that organised labour is being repeatedly portrayed by the ruling class as the cause of industrial unrest,” the statement read.
While reaffirming its support for a strong industrial relations framework, JOHESU insisted that any such policy should undergo thorough scrutiny and receive input from tripartite partners. It urged the government to activate and strengthen the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC) to promote effective and sustainable engagement.
The union maintained that this approach would align labour administration with both international standards and existing Nigerian labour laws.
