Some state governors have received a strong warning from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) not to give advise that would cause "resentment, suffering, and impoverishment" in the country.
The warning comes as the labour unions await President Bola Tinubu's decision on the new minimum wage proposals.
The Tripartite Committee on the National Minimum Wage had recommended a figure of ₦62,000, which the organized labour rejected, instead demanding ₦250,000 as a new living wage.
The government and the organized private sector made the offer of ₦62,000. The labour unions have expressed their dissatisfaction with this offer and have stated that they will subject whatever figure President Tinubu submits to the National Assembly to the decision of the appropriate organs of the two labour centres.
Benson Upah, Head of Information of the NLC, emphasized that not every problem will be solved with a strike and that it is always the last option.
He also urged Nigerians to be patient as the report was submitted to the President during a period that included Democracy Day and the Sallah break, which caused some stakeholders to travel.
Upah highlighted that the governors have a negative disposition towards the new living wage, but they are a minority. He warned these governors to "retrace their steps" instead of giving advice that could lead to a state of impoverishment and resentment.
The labour unions are prepared to take action based on the government's final offer. Upah stated that the unions will look at what the government offers and then meet with the appropriate organs of the NLC and the TUC. Strike action, he emphasized, is the last option.
As the nation awaits President Tinubu's decision, the labour unions have made their stance clear: they will not accept a minimum wage that does not adequately address the cost of living.
The next steps of the labour unions will depend on the government's final decision on the new minimum wage.
