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Condemns withheld federal funds for Rivers
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Warns against using politics to threaten workers’ welfare
The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has directed state councils in states where the ₦70,000 minimum wage is not fully implemented to commence an indefinite strike on 1 December 2024.
This directive was issued in a communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero at the end of the National Executive Council, NEC, meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The communiqué expressed frustration over certain State governments’ refusal to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
“The NEC notes with deep frustration the persistent delay and outright refusal by some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act,” the communiqué read.
“This betrayal by certain governors and government officials across the country flies in the face of both legality and morality, as workers continue to be denied their rightful wages amidst rising economic hardship. It is a blatant disregard for the law and the lives of millions of Nigerian workers, who are being exploited by the very leaders sworn to protect them.”
The NLC announced the establishment of a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee to mobilise workers and educate citizens on the need to resist “this assault on their dignity and rights.”
The communiqué further stated that all non-compliant states must fully implement the new wage by the end of November or face industrial action.
“To this end, all state Councils where the national minimum wage has not been fully implemented by the last day of November, 2024 have been directed to proceed on strike beginning from December 1, 2024. Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have,” it added.
Regarding the escalating economic hardship, the NLC noted the adverse impact of inflation on the populace.
It stated, “The NEC observes, with profound concern, the accelerating economic hardship inflicted upon Nigerian citizens. Inflation continues to rise unchecked, with the costs of necessities spiralling beyond the reach of the average worker. Millions of Nigerians are being driven into destitution, forced to choose daily between feeding their families and seeking healthcare.”
The communiqué called on the Federal Government for immediate interventions, advocating for policies that protect Nigerians from poverty and ensure a living wage.
“NLC demands immediate, concrete interventions from the Federal Government, not token measures, to relieve this suffering. We call for the implementation of comprehensive social protection policies that shield Nigerians from poverty, provide affordable healthcare, and ensure a wage that reflects the true cost of living,” it stated.
In addressing the political crisis in Rivers State, the NEC criticised the withholding of federal revenue allocations to the state, describing it as punitive.
“The NEC condemns the disturbing political situation in Rivers State, where a recent court order seeks to block the disbursement of federally allocated revenue to the state. This punitive move, under the guise of legal recourse, may effectively cripple the state’s capacity to meet its obligations to workers and the wider population,” the statement said.
The NLC expressed solidarity with Rivers State workers, stressing that politics should not jeopardise the welfare of citizens.
On democracy and workers’ rights, the communiqué raised concerns about the erosion of democratic freedoms, including the right to organise and dissent. It urged the President to release remaining detained protesters and establish safeguards to protect against future violations of citizens’ rights.
The NLC also acknowledged the Federal Government’s provision of Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, buses but highlighted infrastructure deficits as a potential hindrance.
“NEC-in-session expressed its appreciation to the Federal Government for providing CNG buses to Congress but noted that they are grossly inadequate to address the huge gap in transportation-focused on reducing costs for workers who daily commute to work.”
The communiqué concluded by reaffirming the NLC’s commitment to upholding the dignity of Nigerian workers, with the NEC warning of continued action against injustices.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress remains unwavering in its commitment to the wellbeing and dignity of Nigerian workers. The NEC reiterates its readiness to confront these injustices with every tool at our disposal. Our resolve is unshakeable, and our demand is clear: a Nigeria where workers are respected, their rights upheld, and their futures secure.”
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