The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) threatens to shut down the economy for a month if the National Assembly decentralizes the minimum wage. NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasizes the union's opposition to wage disparities across states, highlighting the importance of equal pay for equal work
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to shut down the nation's economy for a month if the National Assembly proceeds with decentralizing the minimum wage.
This threat was made by NLC President Joe Ajaero during the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) annual general meeting in Lagos on July 16.
Ajaero emphasized that the Labour union would fiercely oppose any move to transfer the minimum wage from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent list, which would allow state governors to determine their own minimum wages.
He argued that such a change would lead to significant disparities in wages across states, undermining the principle of equal pay for equal work enshrined in the constitution.
He stated, “If the house of representatives and the senate pass such a law, we will ensure there is no movement for one month.
This will affect everyone, including the lawmakers themselves, who will have no one to drive them or guard their gates.”
The NLC President accused the lawmakers and governors of attempting to impose "slave wages" on workers, which would exacerbate poverty among citizens.
He dismissed the justification that wages should be based on state revenue, pointing out that governors receive uniform salaries nationwide, regardless of their states' revenue.
Ajaero highlighted that the concept of decentralizing wages is contrary to the ideals of equity and equality before the law.
He noted that while some states already pay higher than the national minimum wage, the proposed legislation would allow for unjust disparities that the Labour union cannot accept.
As the National Assembly continues to amend the 1999 constitution, including the proposal to move the minimum wage to the concurrent list, the NLC has put its members on high alert. The union vows to resist any unpatriotic legislation aimed at diminishing the rights and wages of Nigerian workers.
