The Trade Union Congress on Sunday called on the President, Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), to redesign the COVID-19 lockdown order so that the nation’s economy would gradually reopen.
The second phase of lockdown announced by the President two weeks ago would elapse today.
The Nigeria Labour Congress had earlier on Tuesday kicked against the extension of the lockdown in Lagos, Ogun and the Federal Capital Territory.
In an exclusive interview with our correspondent in Abuja, president of the TUC, Quadri Olaleye, said the lockdown could be extended while some sectors of the economy should be allowed to operate based on a drawn timetable. He said Nigeria could not afford continued total lockdown of its economy.
Olaleye said, “Government has to restrategise the lockdown and come up with a roster so that industries and sectors will know when to operate within the period. Those who offer essential services can be given more days to operate. A temporary pass should be given to those concerned to move around.”