Nationwide Strike Catches FG Off Guard: ‘We Never Saw It Coming’
The FG is on a nationwide strike over the minimum wage, saying, “We never saw it coming.”
The Federal Government was taken aback by Monday, June 3, nationwide strike, as disclosed by Minister of Labour and Employment Nkiruka Onyejeocha.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) were accused by Onyejeocha of not upholding the spirit of social dialogue in this statement, which she issued on the same Monday. The leaders of these groups, according to her, lacked the patience to see the negotiations with the tripartite committee through.
Additionally, the Minister contended that laborers had no right to expect the federal government to set wages that local and state governments, as well as governors, would reimburse their employees.
Adding, “We were negotiating and didn't conclude before Labour walked out. That is not in the spirit of social dialogue. The truth of the matter is that we have entered a negotiation, and all the parties should be patient enough to conclude it.
“Having experienced what took place today, the national grid was affected, and people were stranded in our airports. People already suffered a lot of hardship and setbacks because of today's strike. The natural thing to do is for Labour to rescind its decision and come back to the negotiating table.
“As I always say, a strike should be the last option because we know what the issues are, and we are available for discussion and negotiation. We believe there is nothing that can't be resolved. But embarking on a strike takes the matter to the extreme, which, of course, has a negative implication for both our economy and the welfare of the people,” she pleaded.
No comments:
Leave comment here