On Thursday, September 19, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) expressed strong concerns that President Bola Tinubu had betrayed organized labor by using the price of petrol as a bargaining tool.
During a workshop in Lagos titled “Minimum Wage Implementation Workshop, Southern Zone,” NLC President Joe Ajaero shared that the agreement for a N70,000 minimum wage came with a promise from President Tinubu not to increase fuel prices.
Ajaero explained, “When we discussed the N70,000 wage, President Tinubu said we could either accept it without raising petrol prices, or choose a higher wage of N250,000, which would mean a rise in fuel prices.”
He emphasized that labor chose the N70,000 option to protect the public from the negative impact of higher fuel costs. “If we had accepted the N250,000, it would have hurt many Nigerians,” he added.
Ajaero noted that the current high cost of petrol undermines the benefits of the new minimum wage and called on the government to address issues like hunger and poverty affecting many citizens. He expressed frustration over distractions aimed at the labor movement, such as allegations of wrongdoing.
He recalled a critical moment in their negotiations, stating, “Mr. President told us we had one hour to decide between the N250,000 wage and the fuel price increase. We asked for a week to think about it.”
After the week, the labor leaders returned to tell President Tinubu that they could not agree to any fuel price hikes, saying, “We can’t allow you to increase prices. That would hurt all Nigerians.”
Ajaero also mentioned that during their discussions, the President suggested they visit West African countries where petrol prices are lower. However, they declined, wanting to focus on the pressing issue of minimum wage instead.
He concluded by acknowledging the challenges faced by labor, stating, “Even the N70,000 wage isn’t enough for many. We faced tough opposition from private sector employers during these discussions.”
Ajaero’s statements highlight the ongoing struggle of workers in Nigeria as they navigate the complexities of wage negotiations amid rising living costs.
