TUC urges peace, harmony before, after 2019 polls

As the electioneering campaigns for next year’s general elections gather momentum, the Trade Union of Nigeria (TUC), has urged politicians to ensure that the 2019 polls are held under an atmosphere of peace and tranquility before and after the exercise.

The union said insincerity and internal wrangling within the political parties were further tearing the country apart, stressing that if that happens, it means the politicians never meant well for the country in the first place.

TUC, in its 2018 Christmas and New Year message to Nigerians, stated that it was unfortunate that instead of addressing key national issues, our leaders seem to be playing politics at the expense of people’s lives, even as the citizens have lost the national cohesion and progress they so desired.

The statement issued by its President, Bobboi Kaigama and Secretary General, Musa-Lawal Ozigi, lauded government for its effort at ensuring safety of lives and property, payment of salaries and provision of infrastructure.

“It is imperative that they do not become insensitive to our challenges if they truly appreciate the virtues and principles Jesus Christ stood for. “We want to assume that all the Presidential aspirants may have good intentions for the country. However, Congress will like to remind them that in every election, only one candidate who will emerge for each of the positions.

“Congress wishes Nigerians well and cautions against actions that could lead to violence. We enjoin all Nigerians to be vigilant even as we celebrate Christmas and New Year because the times ahead are perilous,” the statement reads.On the new national minimum wage for Nigerian workers, the union argued government has politicised the issue, adding that workers would not relent until government approves a new minimum wage.