Amid growing tension between labor unions and the Lagos State Government, employees of Lagos Television (LTV), Radio Lagos/Eko FM, and Lagos Traffic Radio have been instructed to end their strike and return to work. Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, issued the directive, accusing union members of disrupting essential services.
The government criticized union actions, accusing members of employing violent tactics during the industrial action. Allegations include forcibly shutting down operations at broadcast stations, damaging property, and switching off transmitters.
These acts infringe on the rights of workers providing essential services and interrupt vital public broadcasts, Commissioner Ayantayo noted in a press statement.
The strike stems from union demands to add approximately 245 workers to the state’s payroll. Although the government insists that discussions are ongoing and held a meeting on January 8 to address concerns, union representatives reportedly intensified their actions, forcing staff out and halting broadcasts.
Officials have warned union leaders against intimidating employees willing to resume work. “Violence or attacks on public facilities are not justifiable during industrial action,” the statement declared, stating the government’s commitment to resolving the matter through dialogue.
The government has pledged to safeguard workers who return to their posts and warned against further harassment by union leaders. Authorities reiterated their commitment to resolving the dispute through dialogue.