State-Governor Appeals To NLC And TUC To Halt Indefinite-Strike (View Text)

State-Governor Appeals To NLC And TUC To Halt Indefinite-Strike (View Text)

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has issued a heartfelt appeal to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to suspend their planned indefinite strike, emphasizing the severe economic repercussions it could have on the nation.

This appeal follows the labour unions’ announcement to commence a strike on Monday, sparked by unresolved disputes over a new minimum wage and recent hikes in electricity tariffs.

Governor Mohammed’s plea was made public after a meeting in Abia State with Governor Alex Otti, Edo’s Governor Godwin Obaseki, and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee (NWC).

Addressing the press after the discussions, Mohammed underscored the detrimental effects the strike could have on Nigeria, particularly amidst the current economic challenges. He expressed concern that the strike would not only disrupt economic activities but could also lead to deeper financial difficulties for the country, exacerbating existing hardships.

He highlighted the importance of dialogue and negotiation to avoid the potential economic fallout from such widespread industrial action. Mohammed urged the labour unions to consider alternative measures and engage in further discussions with the government to find a mutually agreeable resolution to their grievances. He stressed the need to maintain economic stability and protect the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.

“I have always looked forward to making sure that workers get the best in terms of welfare, in terms of salaries and wages. But it has to be affordable; something that is within the threshold of affordability by all the sub-national and local governments. Definitely what the Federal Government will be negotiating,” Mohammed stated.

He further explained, “Some of the state governors will not be able to pay. Even at the moment, the current minimum wage of N30,000, some states are not able to pay. And I know labour leaders are real leaders. They should look at this because the strike may cripple the economy and further cause pain to workers and all of us. So, we are pleading that we should have a combining point where we can look at our affordability.”

Mohammed also addressed the infringement of local council autonomy, emphasizing that the state cannot function without local government.

Other PDP leaders accompanying him to Otti’s hometown of Isiala-Ngwa Local Government Area included former Deputy Senate Leader Abdul Ningi and the acting National Chairperson of PDP, Umar Damagum.

Governor Mohammed’s appeal highlights the critical need for a balanced approach to resolving labour disputes, ensuring that while workers’ demands are met, the broader economic stability and functionality of all governmental levels are preserved.