The battle between the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Federal Government over an increase in the country’s minimum wage from N18,000 to N30,000 was indeed a life long battle which forced the Government to finally retreat however, there appears to be a huge problem as there is a slight delay in the implementation
Following the delay/recent development, the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria and the United Labour Congress, Delta state chapters, on Tuesday shut down offices to protest.
The state chairman of NLC, Comrade Jonathan Jemirimigbe, said the rally was to sensitise the general public, as well as the Federal and state governments to expedite action on the presentation and passage of the new wage bill by the National Assembly and its implementation by government.
He said Nigerian workers will take their grievances to the polling stations and indicate in the ballot their views on the faithful implementation of the new minimum wage by the Executive.
According to him, for the avoidance of doubt, the fate of the new wage will largely determine the electoral preference of Nigerian workers in 2019.
“We are waiting for further directives from the national body of the NLC based on the outcome of their negotiation with the Federal Government.
The protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as: ‘We create the wealth, we deserve better pay,’ ‘Good-bye to N18,000 minimum wage;’ ‘On N30,000 national minimum wage we stand,’ among others.
They marched from the Labour House along NTA-Okoanam Road through Inter-Bau to Government House, chanting solidarity songs.
Addressing the group, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State reassured the workers of government’s commitment to pay whatever the Federal Government approves as national minimum wage for Nigerian workers.
The governor, represented by Chief of Staff, Government House, Tam Brisibe said that the state government has always maintained a cordial relationship with labour unions, adding that his administration would continue to ensure that workers’ welfare is sustained and made a priority.
“Once the Federal Government establishes the new minimum wage and enacts it into law, Delta government will implement it immediately.
“We all know that it is not the responsibility of the Delta government to say what the wage should be, but once that is agreed upon, we will implement, it” Okowa said.
