The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria ((AHUON) has said
the declaration of nationwide strike action on Monday, June 3, 2024, by the organized labour “is ill-timed and unfavorable for the Nigerian Muslim community.”
AHUON said in a statement that it “understands the position of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to press for a better working condition for the Nigerian worker we as well feel the pains of all Nigerians at this trying period.”
“However, we strongly feel the declaration and commencement of the nationwide strike action is ill-timed and unfavorable for Nigerian Muslim community.”
They called “the attention of the Labour Congress to the impact of the strike on one of the most fundamental pillars of Islam which is Hajj which is followed by Eid kabir festival nationwide and the financial implications the strike will have on Muslims who have saved for years to be able to embark on this holy journey.”
“Additionally, the financial loss to our members will run into Billions of naira having completed all necessary arrangements of accommodation, transportation, feeding in both Mecca and Madinah, including issued tickets and visas for thousands of people (of which payments are nonrefundable) who will be affected by disruption of both local and international flights operations”
“We hereby cal! on the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress to please re-consider their stand on the timing of the strike action in the interest of Nigerian Muslims who form majority of their membership the strike until after Hajj to avert huge financial loss that will be borne by average Nigerian.
“We trust our plea will meet favourable consideration from the leadership of the two Unions as they’re sensitive to our religious diversity,” National President of AHUON, Abdulateef Ekundayo Yusuf stated.