Amidst the ongoing economic challenges triggered by the removal of fuel subsidies, the Zamfara State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress has mobilized for protests. Taking to the streets, demonstrators marched to the office of Barrister Ahmed Liman, the State’s Head of Service, on Tuesday.
Zamfara stands out as the state most crucial for participating in this protest compared to any other in Nigeria. This is due to the dire situation faced by its workers, who were deprived of the ₦18,000 minimum wage during the Goodluck Jonathan administration and also missed out on the ₦30,000 minimum wage implemented during Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, particularly affecting local government employees and primary teachers.
Addressing the gathering, Sani Haliru, the chairman of the state NLC chapter, emphasized that the protests represented not just the concerns of workers but the broader populace. He expressed deep concern over the escalating levels of hunger, suffering, and deprivation, citing these as the catalysts for the labor force’s action.
Haliru noted the fruitless discussions between labor representatives and the federal government, citing a lack of tangible outcomes. Despite acknowledging the state government’s efforts in clearing salary and pension arrears, he urged for further action to alleviate the prevailing hardships.
In response, Liman acknowledged the peaceful conduct of the protests and pledged to convey their grievances to Governor Dauda Lawal for necessary action.
The NLC’s agitation stems from the government’s perceived failure to honor agreements reached in October 2023, following the fuel subsidy removal. The protests come after a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government to address the widespread hardships across the nation.
