The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for threatening to dismiss workers who are striking over the non-implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero described the governor’s remarks as “irresponsible and unhelpful,” accusing him of escalating tensions instead of addressing workers’ grievances.
The dispute arose after months of unproductive discussions between labour unions and the state government regarding the implementation of the national minimum wage, which was signed into law earlier this year. Despite multiple notices and appeals, the state has yet to fulfill its obligation, prompting workers to take industrial action.
“The law provides for enforcement by workers. Furthermore, strike action is a lawful and legitimate tool for aggrieved workers,” Ajaero said.
“In this regard, we consider the threats by the governor to be irresponsible and unhelpful. A reasonable governor should have invited the labour leaders in the state for dialogue to resolve the issue promptly. But he seems to think he is above it all.”
“We want the world to know that Governor Nwifuru is the first to escalate this issue, despite being fully responsible for it.
“We also want the world to understand that we have the right to respond as we pursue justice in this matter. Consequently, the National Secretariat of the Congress has directed all affiliates, including those in the private sector, to immediately join the strike action.”
