IMPEDIMENTS TO INDUSTRIAL ACTION IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Industrial action, often employed by workers and trade unions to demand better wages, improved working conditions, and other labour rights, faces significant impediments in Nigeria. Strike by trade union or workers’ is the most common form of industrial action in Nigeria. This paper examines the major impediments to industrial action in Nigeria which include cumbersome legal provisions which must be undertaken before a strike action can be lawful, economic impediments, intimidation and repression of workers/trade union. These impediments collectively hinder the effectiveness of industrial action in Nigeria, limiting the workers' ability to advocate for their rights and demand better labour conditions. The paper found that the procedures which must be followed by workers or trade unions for a strike to be lawful in Nigeria are rigorous. The paper adopted the doctrinal research methodology and utilized both the primary and secondary sources of data including statutes, journal, textbook and subsidiary legislations. The paper recommends that the Trade Dispute Act be amended to provide a more practical procedure for workers/trade union who wish to embark on an industrial action.