Sophia Michaels
The Nation reports that Muslim faithful among protesting organized labour in Oyo state on Friday observed the Jumat prayers on the road.
They were joined by some members of the public and even security operatives to observe the prayers.
Friday protest made it a whole week that organised labour has grounded government activities in Oyo State.
The Nation reports that the workers, under the aegis of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) and their affiliates had since Monday embarked on a protest in the state.
The protest which was held at the frontage of the State Secretariat in the last five days paralysed government businesses in the state as the unions locked all the entrance gates to the government Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
Aside from preventing workers from gaining access to the secretariat, the unionists also ensured that those who reported early to work were chased out to ensure total compliance.
Security operatives including men of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Legion, other plain-clothed operatives, members of the public, petty traders, and others also joined in the Friday Jumat prayers. The workers had earlier said they will hold the prayers on the road.
Alfa Qasim Tiamiyu, who is not a member of any labour unions or any of its affiliates led the prayers after a short sermon.
Speaking during the sermon, the Islamic cleric said all power to do and undo, make, or marry belongs to the Almighty Allah.
He enjoined the workers not to leave Allah out of their struggles, desires, and plans.
He also called on political officeholders to always consider the plight of the people they are leading, noting that all things will come to an end someone but that only God will remain.
In his remarks, Oyo NLC Chairman, Comrade Kayode Martins applauded the workers for their resilience, saying all that had happened in the last week is just the tip of the iceberg when compared with what is still in stock.
He said the workers remain undeterred and resolute in their resolve to only meet and talk to Governor Seyi Makinde, a yardstick to ending the protest.
Martins said: “I want to commend you all for your efforts and labour in driving home our point. All that we have done is just a mere preliminary.
“We thank everyone, every member and affiliates for your support and solidarity.
“I promise you that you will hear from us before Monday on the new development.
“By Monday, if we don’t hear from our governor we will assemble here again.”
