The police authorities have issued a stern warning against any form of violence during the planned two-day demonstration declared by organized Labour.
The protest aims to highlight grievances against the hardships and high cost of living in Nigeria.
This caution was delivered as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) set fresh conditions ahead of minimum wage negotiations scheduled to commence today. The police’s stance comes amid concerns raised by the African Development Bank (AfDB) about potential social unrest due to rising fuel and commodity prices.
In its macroeconomic performance and outlook for 2024, the AfDB projected a rebound in Africa’s economy, forecasting a growth rate of 3.8 percent. However, it cautioned that currency depreciation or subsidy removal in Nigeria, Angola, Kenya, and Ethiopia could exacerbate internal conflicts and fuel social unrest.
The NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had earlier given a two-week ultimatum to the government to implement agreements on palliatives for workers. Failing to see progress, they have mobilized their members for nationwide protests scheduled for February 27 and 28.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, highlighted the dire situation faced by Nigerian workers, including hunger, erosion of purchasing power, and insecurity. He emphasized that the protest would proceed after the expiration of the ultimatum issued to the Federal Government on February 23.
While labor unions have expressed readiness to adjust their demand for a minimum wage, they stress the importance of setting a wage that reflects economic realities and addresses workers’ hardships. This sentiment was echoed by a top NLC official, who emphasized the need for a scientifically determined living wage based on the cost of living in Nigeria.
As discussions on the minimum wage commence, the NLC continues to gather data from state and local government councils to ascertain the actual cost of caring for basic needs, ensuring that workers’ interests are adequately represented.
