By Mohammed Bello Doka
Organised labour is gearing up for a nationwide strike commencing Monday, June 3, according to sources. A labour leader, speaking anonymously to Vanguard, indicated that the outcome of today's meeting will be crucial in determining their next steps.
"The outcome of tomorrow’s (today's) meeting will determine our next line of action. If the meeting is fruitful, it will benefit everyone," the labour leader stated. "However, should the government's team maintain its indifferent attitude towards workers' welfare, we are prepared to go on strike from Monday. Mobilization for the strike is already underway."
The labour leader emphasized that the one-month ultimatum given to the government to finalize negotiations on the new national minimum wage expires today. "We have been patient amidst the hardship and widespread suffering caused by the government's anti-poor policies," he added.
He also pointed out that the issue of the minimum wage is statutory. "The old Minimum Wage Act ceased to exist on April 18. We had more than six months to work on a new minimum wage, yet the government has not taken issues affecting workers seriously. Nigerians can attest to our patience with this government. If the government knows what is good for it, let its negotiators propose something reasonable to meet workers’ expectations. Otherwise, a strike will be inevitable from Monday," he warned.
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