FG Pleads for Time as Indefinite Strike Begins Monday

By Mo Hanif

Industrial action not solution, labour must show understanding – Minister

Fuel scarcity, blackout loom as NUPENG, PENGASSAN vow to join strike

The Federal Government has called on Organised Labour to reconsider its plan to embark on an indefinite strike starting Monday, June 3, 2024, due to the government’s refusal to raise the proposed minimum wage from N60,000.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, emphasized in an exclusive interview that the interests of the masses should be paramount to Organised Labour. Mohammed stressed that industrial action is not the solution and urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to show understanding.

This plea comes after Organised Labour announced a nationwide strike over the Federal Government’s failure to raise the minimum wage and reverse the hike in electricity tariffs. The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, expressed deep disappointment over the government's failure to conclude and pass a new National Minimum Wage Act and address the increased electricity tariffs.

During a recent meeting, which Organised Labour described as dismissive and unproductive, no significant government officials were present to negotiate. This led to Labour leaders feeling disrespected and uncommitted to the negotiation process.

The labour unions have set clear demands, including the reversal of the electricity tariff hike and the conclusion of minimum wage negotiations. Despite issuing an ultimatum and staging protests, the government has not made significant progress, leading Labour to announce the strike.

The Federal Government, through Minister Mohammed, has reiterated its appeal for Labour to reconsider the strike, emphasizing the need for continued dialogue and negotiation. However, Labour remains firm, with the NLC and TUC urging all affiliates and the general public to prepare for decisive action.

Meanwhile, key unions in the power, oil, and gas sectors, including NUPENG, PENGASSAN, and NUEE, have pledged to join the strike, potentially leading to fuel scarcity and nationwide blackouts.

The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria has also weighed in, describing the government’s offer of N60,000 as reasonable given the current economic challenges. However, Labour argues that the government’s proposal falls short of meeting the needs of Nigerian workers.

As the strike looms, the Federal Government continues to defend its stance, highlighting various economic considerations and non-monetary incentives offered to mitigate the impact of the proposed minimum wage. The situation remains tense as the nation braces for the impending industrial action and its potential consequences.