By Hosea Parah, Abuja

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed its disappointment and strong condemnation of recent comments made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) regarding the ongoing nationwide strike led by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

In a press release issued on Friday by Benson Upah, Head of Information and Public Affairs, Nigeria Labour Congress, the NLC criticized the SGF’s characterization of the strike as a “treasonable felony” and “economic sabotage,” stating that such remarks undermine the spirit of constructive dialogue necessary for resolving the issues at hand.

The demands put forth by the NLC and TUC are clear and just. They are seeking the conclusion and signing into law of a new national minimum wage that reflects the cost of living, a reversal of the hike in electricity tariff, and an end to the discriminatory classification of electricity consumers. These demands are rooted in the pursuit of economic justice and fairness for all Nigerian workers and citizens.

The NLC emphasized that the SGF is well aware of individuals who actually engage in treasonable acts and sabotage the economy. The NLC identified those who loot the treasury, divert public resources, engage in fraudulent practices, and steal vast sums of money as the real economic saboteurs. The NLC criticized the SGF for trivializing the genuine grievances of Nigerian workers and highlighted the disconnect between the government and the realities faced by ordinary citizens.

Furthermore, the NLC questioned the SGF’s assertion that he cannot afford to pay his four drivers a monthly salary of N100,000 each. The NLC pointed out that such a statement reflects a disregard for the economic challenges faced by workers and suggested that it may indicate a slave-master mentality. The NLC also raised concerns about the justification for the SGF’s substantial salaries and allowances.

The NLC emphasized that strikes are not only legal but also a civic duty, allowing workers to hold the government accountable and press for their interests. The NLC rejected the insinuations made around the SGF’s remarks and called for a retraction of the statements. The NLC stressed the importance of respectful and productive negotiations, free from duress, threats, and intimidation.

The NLC urged the government to engage in genuine dialogue and address the legitimate concerns of Nigerian workers. The NLC remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of all Nigerian workers and vowed to pursue their demands through all legitimate means available to them.