Petrol price has rendered N70, 000 minimum wage useless — NLC
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) announced plans to meet with the federal government to discuss urgent measures to help workers cope with the recent spike in petrol prices, which it claims has rendered the proposed N70,000 national minimum wage ineffective.
During the opening ceremony of a two-day workshop on the “Minimum Wage Implementation Workshop, Southern Zone” held in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero highlighted that the current petrol prices have significantly eroded any benefits that would have come from the new wage.
He accused President Bola Tinubu of deceiving organized labour into accepting the N70,000 minimum wage, claiming it was a tactic to forestall a rise in fuel prices.
Ajaero emphasized the critical need for the government to address the rampant hunger, poverty, and frustration experienced by many Nigerians.
He warned that if these issues are not tackled, “the situation could escalate beyond control, leaving citizens to suffer in silence.”
Reflecting on negotiations with President Tinubu, Ajaero recounted that during discussions on the minimum wage, the president suggested raising it to N250,000 but also insisted that the subsidy on petrol would be removed.
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Ajaero explained that labour representatives were reluctant to accept such a high minimum wage, concerned that it would further disrupt the economy.
The NLC president described the strategy employed by the government as a diversionary tactic, aimed at undermining the labor movement.
He accused officials of using allegations against the NLC to distract from the pressing issues surrounding petrol prices.
Ajaero further revealed that discussions with private sector employers had been contentious, leading to significant resistance and resulting in several walkouts during negotiations.
He lamented the ongoing struggles faced by workers as they contend with rising living costs and decreasing purchasing power.
The NLC’s warnings illustrate the serious challenges confronting workers in Nigeria, particularly as the connection between petrol prices and living wages remains a pressing concern.
The organisation remains committed to advocating for improved working conditions and fair remuneration, emphasizing that without immediate action, “the plight of Nigerian workers will only worsen.”
