There are strong indications that Organised Labour may initiate a nationwide strike starting Monday, June 3, due to ongoing disputes over a new minimum wage.
The tripartite committee on the new national minimum wage (NNMW) is set to reconvene today, following an abrupt adjournment triggered by labour’s walkout during last Tuesday’s meeting. Labour representatives accused government negotiators of lacking seriousness in the negotiation process.
Sources within Organised Labour revealed that a nationwide strike might commence on Monday, contingent on the outcome of today’s meeting.
According to these sources, labour unions are already mobilizing for a potential strike beginning June 3.
A labour leader, speaking anonymously, stated: “The outcome of today’s meeting will determine our next course of action. If the discussions are productive, it will be beneficial for all parties involved. However, if the government’s team continues to exhibit a dismissive attitude towards workers’ welfare, nothing will prevent us from striking on Monday. Preparations for the strike are already underway.
“Everyone is aware that the one-month ultimatum we issued to the government to conclude negotiations on the new national minimum wage expires today. We have endured the hardship and widespread suffering caused by the government’s anti-poor policies with patience.
“Moreover, the issue of the minimum wage is a legal requirement. The previous Minimum Wage Act ceased to be effective as of April 18. We had more than six months to develop a new minimum wage framework, yet the government has shown little commitment to addressing workers’ concerns. Nigerians can testify to our patience with this government. If the government values stability, its negotiators must present a reasonable proposal that meets workers’ expectations; otherwise, a strike will be unavoidable starting Monday.”
