By Joke Kujenya
A MAJOR nationwide indefinite strike has been declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), set to commence on Monday, June 3rd, 2024.
This decision follows the breakdown of negotiations with the Federal Government concerning a new minimum wage and the recent hike in electricity tariffs.
The announcement was made at a joint press conference in Abuja, led by NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo.
The labour leaders expressed their frustration over the government’s failure to finalize negotiations for a new minimum wage by the end of May, as previously requested.
“In light of this persistent inaction, we, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), hereby issue a notice of commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike to the Federal Government,” Osifo declared.
He emphasized that the unresolved issues, including the non-legislation of the agreed wage and the continued hike in electricity tariffs, have left Nigerian workers with no choice but to take drastic measures.
The labour unions are demanding a minimum wage of N497,000, a significant increase from the government’s latest offer of N60,000.
The push for a new minimum wage has intensified following the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, which have dramatically increased the cost of living in Nigeria.
In response, labour leaders have proposed several measures, such as a new minimum wage and alternative transportation modes, to alleviate the economic burden on workers.
A committee comprising labour leaders, government officials, and representatives from the organized private sector was established to negotiate a new minimum wage.
However, despite numerous meetings, the committee failed to reach a consensus, leading to the decision for industrial action.
Osifo and Ajaero expressed regret for the inconvenience the strike will cause the general public but maintained that it is a necessary step to compel the government to address the pressing issues faced by Nigerian workers.
The FG is yet to issue a statement regarding the impending strike.
Meanwhile, the labour unions said they remain steadfast in their resolve to press forward with their demands until a satisfactory resolution is reached.
