The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states that have yet to implement the new minimum wage to begin an indefinite strike on December 1, 2024.
This directive was part of the NLC’s resolutions following its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting over the weekend.
“The NEC expresses deep frustration over the continuous delay and outright refusal of some state governments to enforce the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. This betrayal by certain governors and officials disregards both the law and ethics, depriving workers of their due wages despite worsening economic hardships. Such actions demonstrate a lack of respect for the law and for millions of Nigerian workers, exploited by leaders sworn to protect their welfare.
“The NEC has decided to form a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee. This committee will conduct nationwide assessments, mobilization, and awareness campaigns to educate workers and citizens about the need to oppose these violations of their rights and dignity. Additionally, the NLC will initiate a series of industrial actions in states that fail to comply, persisting until the minimum wage is universally enforced across Nigeria.”
“To this end, all state councils where the National Minimum Wage has not been fully implemented by the end of November 2024 are instructed to commence a strike starting on December 1, 2024. Nigerian workers are demanding justice, and they shall have it,” the NLC statement read in part.
The NLC has also criticized petroleum marketers for overpricing petrol, alleging that the current pump price is significantly higher than its real market value.
The NLC claims that petrol marketers are taking advantage of Nigerians, worsening the economic challenges stemming from the government’s harsh policies.
“The NEC expressed growing concern over irregularities in petrol pricing in Nigeria. It suspects collusion among powerful industry figures, as the current price is far above the actual market rate.
“Inflated costs and excessive profit margins appear to be prevalent, as indicated by the ongoing dispute between marketers and the Dangote group. It’s likely that Nigerian workers and citizens are being exploited by those with economic power, possibly hindering the immediate operation of public refineries.
“NLC demands fair petrol pricing and urges the swift reopening of domestic refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to end the monopolistic hold of major industry players.”
Regarding Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions, the NLC reported that its NEC is deeply troubled by the escalating financial hardship facing citizens.
It noted that inflation is soaring unchecked, with essential goods becoming increasingly unaffordable for the average worker, among other issues.
The NLC called for urgent, substantial measures from the Federal Government, beyond superficial gestures, to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
“We urge the implementation of broad social protection policies to shield Nigerians from poverty, provide affordable healthcare, and establish a wage that aligns with the actual cost of living. We advocate for a national wage review and a reassessment of policies that have so far disadvantaged the Nigerian people.”
