The NLC Delta chapter has started to shut schools and offices in Asaba await the planned strike over delay to implement the new minimum wage.

CEOAFRICA gathered on Wednesday that the NLC members were patrolling Asaba in a marked Hiace mini-bus, closing government offices and turning back school children.

Recall that the national body of the NLC had threatened to go on strike from Thursday if the Federal Government fails to meet its demand on the consequential adjustment.

labour was demanding a 29 per cent increase for officers at grade levels 07 to 14 and 24 per cent adjustment for officers at grade levels 15 to 17.

While the Federal Government proposed an 11 per cent increase for officers at grade level 07 to 14 and 6.5 per cent adjustment for workers at grade level 15 to 17.

CEOAFRICA gathered that labour was on strike in the state, “We are on strike and that is all I can tell you for now. We expect offices and schools to comply with.

“The strike is in force that is why we are going around to enforce compliance,” Ofoburuku said.

CEOAFRICA also learnt that most government offices and schools within Asaba metropolis were closed as at this morning.

The state government secretariat, along Okpanam road, was equally shut as some workers who had reported for work were seen milling around the gate.

It was also gathered that Mrs. Tina Okolo, a civil servant went home after the NLC members came to lock her office premises and ask the workers to go home.

“They came this morning and ask us to go home. I reported working at 8:15 am, but now am going home.

“I don’t know much about the strike, so I am just waiting to see how things will turn out,” Okolo said.

It was also gathered that the gate of West-End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba, was also closed, as the students were seen going home at 10:15 am.

Also, it was gathered that, members of the NLC were seen at the Achievers Group of Schools, DLA road Asaba, driving out the students and trying to lock up the school gate.

However, most banks in Asaba remained open for business as customers continued their transactions without hindrance.