Labour Unions Strike Due To Lack Of Commitment By Government

Oluwasegun SanusiJune 3, 20241 Mins read107

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have embarked on an indefinite industrial action, citing the Federal Government’s failure to fulfill its promises and engage in meaningful negotiations over a new minimum wage.

The strike, which began this morning, follows months of stalled negotiations and unfulfilled commitments by the government.

We Demand A living Wage pic.twitter.com/juQDdXdSOM
— Nigeria Labour Congress HQ (@NLCHeadquarters) June 3, 2024

Over a year ago, the Federal Government removed the subsidy with a promise of wage awards to mitigate the economic impact on workers. However, it reneged on its agreement with Labour, only resuming payment of the wage awards after repeated threats of strike action.

The government’s handling of the minimum wage review process has been fraught with delays and inaction.

Despite knowing that the old minimum wage would expire on April 18, the Federal Government failed to set up a minimum wage review team promptly.

The indefinite strike by the NLC and TUC comes after last-minute negotiations, pleas, and subtle threats by government representatives failed to prevent it.

A mediation meeting initiated by the National Assembly leadership on Sunday night ended in a stalemate, as Labour leaders remained resolute in their demands.

TUC President Festus Osifo, speaking on behalf of the Labour unions, confirmed to journalists that despite the government’s pleas, the Labour leaders insisted on their demands.

The Labour unions’ decision to strike has garnered widespread support from workers across the country.

As the strike continues, the Federal Government faces mounting pressure to address the grievances of the nation’s workforce.