The Disputes of Rights Versus Disputes of Interests’ Dichotomy in Labour Law: The Case of Nigerian Labour Law

Abstract

This paper argues that Nigerian Labour Law does not comply with the widely-accepted international practice of permitting industrial action in respect of disputes of interests, while disputes of rights are made subject to arbitration or the industrial court. It is further argued that this situation constitutes a profound limitation on the right to undertake industrial action in Nigeria. The paper concludes that the present situation must be reversed in order to comply with international labour standards and to protect workers’ legitimate rights in Nigeria.