Kehinde Fajobi
Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), on Tuesday condemned the actions of Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, who had threatened to dismiss workers involved in a strike over the non-implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage.
Ajaero, in a statement issued in Abuja, expressed disappointment with the governor’s response.
Governor Nwifuru had warned of sackings for workers who participated in the strike over the lack of payment of the agreed minimum wage.
The NLC president pointed out that the strike was a result of unsuccessful talks and repeated notifications to the governor regarding the need to implement the 2024 national minimum wage, which had been signed into law several months ago.
“The law gives workers the right to enforce it. Additionally, strike action is a legitimate and lawful response for workers facing such grievances,” Ajaero remarked.
He further criticised the governor’s stance, stating, “The threats made by the governor are irresponsible and counterproductive.
“A responsible governor should have sought to engage with the labour leaders in the state to address the issue swiftly, instead of acting as though he is beyond reproach.”
Ajaero also made it clear, “We want the public to know that it is Governor Nwifuru who has escalated this matter, despite being fully accountable for it.”
The NLC president also affirmed that the union has the right to take action in pursuit of justice.
“As a result, the National Secretariat of the Congress has instructed all affiliates, including those in the private sector, to immediately join the strike,” he added.
Ajaero urged workers already participating in the strike to disregard the governor’s threats and continue their protests until the governor acknowledges the need to implement the law and pay the minimum wage.
He further stated that additional instructions would be provided as necessary.