By: Nwakaji Peace Martins
The Organised Labour has stated that it has orchestrated a comprehensive plan for the full implementation of its indefinite nationwide strike in response to the increase in electricity tariffs and the demand for a new minimum wage for workers. The NLC spokesperson, Mr. Benson Upah, informed Newsmen that a strategic meeting for the strike was convened over the weekend to guarantee the active participation of all affiliates and states in the industrial action. “Preparation is at a significant level,” he remarked. When asked about the impact on essential sectors, the spokesperson responded, “Completely.”
The Medical & Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI), the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), and others have already issued strike notices to their branches and members. After numerous unsuccessful negotiations with the Tripartite Committee on the National New Minimum Wage, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) declared a nationwide strike on Friday due to the government’s refusal to reverse the recent increase in electricity tariffs and the failure to reach an agreement on the new minimum wage.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, expressed disappointment that despite ultimatums and protests, the government has not addressed crucial issues such as the hike in electricity tariffs and the establishment of a minimum wage that aligns with the current economic situation. A member of the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU stated that the various branches would join the state council of NLC at the commencement of the indefinite strike. “ASUU, as an affiliate of NLC, will partake in the indefinite strike. Our members have been duly informed. No lecturer will conduct classes starting tomorrow until the NLC terminates the strike,” he affirmed.
One of the branch chairmen of SSANU informed Newsmen that the national body has instructed its members to participate in the national strike. ASUP President, Shammah Kpanja, informed the Daily Sun that their members have been prepared for the indefinite strike and will not engage with students until the industrial action is called off. The Federal Government, however, dismissed the planned nationwide strike as ineffective, premature, and illegal.
In a letter addressed to the presidents of the NLC and TUC, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasized that the unions’ decision to proceed with the strike occurred while negotiations with the Federal Government and other stakeholders in the Tripartite Committee on determining a new national minimum wage were ongoing. Fagbemi further explained that the organized labor unions failed to issue a mandatory 15-day strike notice as stipulated by the Trade Disputes Act 2004 and the Trade Unions Act. At the time of reporting, the National Assembly was in a meeting with organized labor in a final effort to prevent the strike.
The meeting, which took place at the Senate wing, was attended by high-profile dignitaries including Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and other prominent officials.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, and leaders of organized labor were also in attendance. Before the meeting entered an executive session, Akpabio stated that the purpose of the gathering was to find a resolution to the issues surrounding a new minimum wage for the country.
He emphasized the importance of approaching the minimum wage cautiously to prevent further challenges for workers, especially in the private sector. Ajaero highlighted that the demand for a new minimum wage by organized labor was for the betterment of all Nigerians. He stressed the need for collaborative efforts to address the issue and ensure a fair wage that meets basic needs. Osifo expressed that the past year had been arduous for workers, emphasizing the necessity of a wage that allows workers to afford essential items for survival.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Imo State chapter, urged the NLC to reconsider the decision to go on strike, citing concerns about the potential exacerbation of the country’s economic situation. The state chairman of the NLC, Rev Eches Divine Eches, questioned the feasibility of the proposed minimum wage amount, emphasizing the need for realistic and gradual adjustments.
The Archbishop of the Anglican Communion, Kaduna Diocese, Rev. Timothy Yahaya, voiced concerns about the lack of trust in the leadership of the NLC and TUC, urging them to act in the best interest of the workers and the nation. Bishop Yahaya called for concerted efforts to address the challenges faced by Nigerians, emphasizing the importance of honesty and divine intervention in navigating the country’s issues.
