The Labour Party (LP) has called on workers’ unions to engage in further negotiations with the government regarding the new minimum wage, instead of resorting to industrial action. This plea was voiced by Mr. Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
Mr. Ifoh emphasized that a strike is not a viable solution at this juncture, as it would only intensify the existing hardships faced by Nigerians. “Nigerians are already battling numerous challenges; escalating these issues through a strike is not the way forward,” he explained.
He further remarked on the unfeasibility of the proposed N494,000 minimum wage, labeling it as unrealistic. “Such a figure is unsustainable. If adopted, it would consume the entirety of the nation’s budget allocated for civil servants, which is impractical,” Mr. Ifoh added.
Mr. Ifoh urged the labour unions to persist in dialogue with the Federal Government to find a mutually agreeable wage. He highlighted the importance of ongoing negotiations, suggesting that even if the government’s current stance is to not exceed a N60,000 minimum wage, it’s crucial for organised labour to consider this while continuing negotiations. “Compromise is essential, and staying at home in protest will impact everything from the cost of living to everyday activities, which Nigerians simply cannot afford right now,” he stated.
Despite the government’s efforts to negotiate, including raising their offer from N57,000 to N60,000, the industrial action began. Initially, both the government and the Organised Private Sector had suggested lower figures, which were rejected by the labour unions. After initially proposing a minimum wage of N615,000, labour subsequently reduced their demand first to N497,000 and finally to N494,000, in reflection of the escalating cost of living.
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The Labour Party stands firm in its recommendation against any actions that could further aggravate the public’s difficulties. This stance comes as organized labour continues its strike, initiated to advocate for a revised national minimum wage, following several failed discussions.
