You overstepped your Bounds by shutting down national grid – Tinubu’s aide warns labour

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has criticized the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other groups for shutting down the national power grid. Onanuga suggested that these unions should be grateful Nigeria is not under a military regime.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) confirmed the complete shutdown of the national power grid due to actions by labour unions, coinciding with the nationwide strike initiated by the NLC and TUC. This industrial action began on Monday in response to the Federal Government’s proposal for a ₦60,000 minimum wage.

In a statement released on Monday, TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah announced that workers had deliberately shut down the national power grid.

Responding to the incident in an interview with TVC News, Onanuga emphasized that Nigeria’s civilian regime allows for freedom of expression, a liberty not available under military rule. He urged labour leaders to act more responsibly and not view themselves as adversaries to the government.

“Labour should see itself as a partner with the Federal Government, not an adversary,” Onanuga stated. He expressed concern over the unions’ actions, particularly given the country’s existing power issues, describing the shutdown as excessive.

Onanuga also criticized the unions for their demands, calling them unrealistic. He appealed for more responsible reactions from labour leaders and stressed that participation in strikes should be voluntary, not mandatory.