The Nigeria Labour Congress has condemned Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru’s threat to fire workers striking for the N70,000 minimum wage. NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the governor for failing to engage in dialogue and for the irresponsible nature of his threats. The NLC has called on all affiliates to join the strike until the law is enforced.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has publicly denounced the recent remarks made by Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru regarding striking workers demanding the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage. In a statement issued on Tuesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the governor’s threat to dismiss workers participating in the protest and criticized the governor for failing to address the situation through dialogue.
Ajaero emphasized that the strike was a necessary response to the state government’s negligence, as it followed unsuccessful negotiations and prior notifications to the governor about the implementation of the 2024 national minimum wage, which he had yet to enforce. He stated, “The law provides for enforcement by workers. Furthermore, strike action is a lawful and legitimate tool for aggrieved workers.”
The NLC President further remarked that Governor Nwifuru’s threats were counterproductive and demonstrated an unwillingness to engage with labor leaders to resolve the issue amicably. Ajaero asserted, “We consider the threats by the governor to be irresponsible and unhelpful. A reasonable governor should have invited the labour leaders in the state for dialogue to resolve the issue promptly.”
In light of the governor’s stance, the NLC has instructed all affiliated unions, including those in the private sector, to join the strike. Ajaero urged current strikers to disregard the governor’s intimidation and continue their actions until the administration agrees to comply with the law and provide the minimum wage. He indicated that further directives would be communicated as circumstances evolve.
The ongoing labor dispute in Ebonyi State arises from the governor’s failure to implement the national minimum wage of N70,000, a decision that was established in legislation several months prior. When the state’s workers began protesting due to non-payment, the governor responded with threats of job termination. This incident has drawn attention to the larger issue of labor rights and the government’s responsibility to uphold wage laws, highlighting the strife between state leadership and labor unions that advocate for workers’ rights.
In summary, the controversy surrounding Governor Francis Nwifuru’s threat to dismiss striking workers has escalated, prompting the Nigeria Labour Congress to assert the rights of the workers to protest for their lawful wages. The NLC’s firm stance on upholding workers’ rights and the law emphasizes the necessity for state governors to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resort to intimidation. The situation underscores a critical moment in the ongoing struggle for proper wage implementation in Nigeria.
Original Source: punchng.com
