Labour Union Warns Governors to stay Off Minimum Wage Debate, threatens Unrest

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it will not allow State governors to determine the wages of their workers, adding that it is dictatorial and contradictory to the concept of a national minimum wage

The NLC in a statement warns state governors against making further provocative statements regarding the minimum wage, threatening that such comments could fuel industrial unrest.

According to Benson Upah, NLC’s Head of Information and Public Affairs, the organization may soon face unbearable pressure to initiate industrial action if the minimum wage issue continues to be delayed.

NLC also urged President Bola Tinubu, who has promised a living wage superior to a minimum wage, to resist any form of blackmail from unpatriotic governors.

The statement is not unconnected to the Southern governors position that each state should be allowed to negotiate its own wages.

In response, the NLC stressed that the national minimum wage represents a wage floor ensuring a minimum standard of living for every worker, a principle which cannot be compromised.

The statement read: in parts :“The notion that governors can unilaterally determine the minimum wage undermines the national wage floor, a collective agreement that safeguards workers’ welfare and the national economy.

“We remind the governors that the national minimum wage is distinct from individual state pay structures, which reflect their unique financial capabilities. This flexibility allows states to reward their workers appropriately while adhering to the national wage floor.

“The double standard is evident when comparing the uniform salaries of political officeholders nationwide, as determined by the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission, to the proposed variability in worker wages. This disparity between the privileged few and the majority poor is concerning.

“We urge the governors to educate themselves on global best practices for national minimum wages, as their ignorance on these matters threatens our democracy. We commend governors who prioritize workers’ welfare and pledge to continue supporting them.

“The pursuit of paying workers whatever they like exacerbates poverty and insecurity. Workers’ salaries drive the economy, yet some governors prioritize their greed over citizens’ needs.

“The fate of Nigerian workers cannot be left solely in the hands of employers. Allowing governors to set their wages is akin to letting companies pay whatever they wish, undermining the national wage floor.

“We call on President Tinubu to stand firm against unpatriotic governors and for the federal government to act decisively on the national minimum wage. Ensuring a fair minimum wage is crucial for economic justice, social stability, and national cohesion. Nigerian workers must not be reduced to beggars. Enough is enough!”

The NLC remains committed to advocating for a fair and equitable wage system that reflects the nation’s values and calls on the governors to join in this commitment for the benefit of all Nigerians, ensuring democracy thrives.