Strike looms as organised labour gives deadline for reversal of electricity hike, minimum wage

Voice Air Media, VAM News Update

THE Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have insisted on the May 31, 2024, ultimatum given to the federal government to meet all its demands on the National Minimum Wage and reversal of the hike in electricity tariff.

In a joint statement by the President of the NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and the President of the TUC, Comrade Festus Osifo, organised labour said the ultimatum was necessary in the interest of harmony and industrial peace.

This was the outcome of the emergency meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the NLC and TUC on Monday in response to pressing national issues affecting Nigerian workers.

According to the resolution jointly signed by Comrade Ajaero and Comrade Osifo, the labour unions directed their members in Anambra State to mobilise for industrial action if the state government failed to meet the demands of workers by May 23, 2024.

The NEC as a consequence called on “all affiliate unions”, and workers, including Civil Society Organisations across Nigeria, to remain united and steadfast in solidarity during “this critical period”.

“Together, we shall prevail in our pursuit of a fair and just society that guarantees the dignity and well-being of all its citizens,” the resolution said.

“The NEC affirms its commitment to ensuring that the interests and welfare of workers are adequately protected in the negotiation process,” it further read.

The NEC-in-session also directed all state Councils whose state Governments are yet to fully implement the N30,000 National Minimum Wage and its consequential adjustments to issue immediately a joint two-week ultimatum to culpable state Governments to avert industrial action.

The two centres demand a fair and equitable agreement that reflects the true value of Nigerian workers’ contributions to the nation’s development.

The NECs in session affirmed its “unwavering commitment” to championing the cause of Nigerian workers and ensuring that their rights and interests are upheld “at all times”.

Last week, organised labor walked out of minimum wage negotiations with the government following N48,000 proposal by the Federal Government. The labour unions described the offer as ridiculous.