Minimum Wage Delay: Labour Urged To Declare Nationwide Strike

The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) has called upon the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to immediately mobilize and declare a nationwide strike in response to the ongoing deadlock over minimum wage negotiations and the recent increase in electricity tariffs.

CDWR’s National Publicity Secretary, Chinedu Bosah, emphasized the urgency, stating that the labour leaders’ suspension of the June 3, 2024 strike after just one day has left many questioning their commitment.

Despite initial effectiveness, the strike was prematurely suspended as leaders attended International Labour Organisation meetings in Switzerland. This marks the second instance this year where labour actions were halted without a clear plan should negotiations fail.

Bosah criticized the government and private sector’s stance on a N60,000 minimum wage, noting its inadequacy amidst a staggering 33.95% inflation rate. He highlighted the severe impact on living standards, citing exorbitant food prices and rising costs across essential services. The CDWR stressed that Nigerian workers deserve a minimum wage of no less than N200,000 to combat economic hardships exacerbated by anti-poor policies.

The organization condemned what it sees as a capitalist system that perpetuates poverty wages to sustain elite profits, citing delayed implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage by some states as further evidence. Bosah argued that while government officials justify low wages, they themselves indulge in extravagant spending and allowances, exacerbating economic disparities.

In light of these challenges, CDWR urged the labour movement to escalate its efforts, proposing a 48-hour general strike and mass protest to demand a living wage and the reversal of anti-people policies. They emphasized the need for proactive leadership and grassroots mobilization to garner broad support for the struggle.

Looking ahead, CDWR called for automatic adjustments to the minimum wage in line with inflation rates to prevent future crises and ensure fair compensation for workers. They also advocated for the establishment of a democratic, socialist-oriented political party to challenge the dominance of Nigeria’s capitalist ruling elite and promote policies benefiting the majority.

As tensions rise and economic conditions worsen, the fate of Nigeria’s labour movement hinges on its ability to unite and push for meaningful change against entrenched interests.