The Federal Government has cautioned workers considering participation in the indefinite strike called by labor unions that they could face a six-month jail term.

Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), issued this warning in a statement on Sunday.

Fagbemi explained that Section 18 of the Trade Disputes Act mandates workers in essential services to provide their employers with 15 days' notice before ceasing work. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in a fine or six months' imprisonment upon conviction.

He emphasized the critical nature of the 15-day notice, pointing out that Sections 41 and 42(1)(b) of the Act make non-compliance a criminal offense.

Fagbemi also highlighted that the Federal Government has been actively engaging with stakeholders in the tripartite committee to establish a new national minimum wage and has not halted negotiations.

Moreover, the Attorney General noted that the planned strike would violate an order from the National Industrial Court, which is currently addressing related issues through mediation.

The Federal Government reminded the public of the interim injunctive order issued on June 5, 2023, in case NICN/ABJ/158/2023 – Federal Government of Nigeria & Anor vs. Nigerian Labour Congress & Anor, which prohibits the NLC from initiating any industrial action or strike.

Fagbemi assured that the government remains committed to a conciliatory approach in addressing workers' and citizens' welfare through collective bargaining. He urged the labor unions to reconsider the strike and resume negotiations, which have been postponed to a yet-to-be-announced date.

He concluded by stating that a more civil and patriotic approach would allow the Congress to pursue its objectives legally, avoiding unnecessary hardships for Nigerians that the proposed strike would cause.