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From Fred Ezeh and Idu Jude, Abuja
The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) has called on both the Federal Government and the Unions to return to the negotiating table, and arrive at an acceptable position for the sake of suffering Nigerians
According to a statement from the National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifo, the party noted that in just a few hours into the strike, Nigeria had been thrown into darkness, hospitals shut and water pipes drained, thereby throwing Nigerians into yet another hardship.
The party further posited that in order to remove that suffering from the people, both the government and the labour have to shift grounds to have a meeting point
The statement further read: “It is our opinion that the Federal Government ought not to have allowed the strike to commence in the first instance. And whether a new minimum wage is due, the answer is yes, because the reality as at today is that the current minimum wage of N30,000 cannot even take anybody home. It cannot stand the economic realities of the people as it is today. This reality accords the importance of an upward review of the minimum wage.
“As to the amount that is being demanded, it is our sincere opinion that both parties should come to an agreement, each party should shift their position in the spirit of negotiation, so that we can have something that is reasonable from both sides. The amount being tabled by the Federal Government can be upped but the Organised Labour must also prune their demands.
“We want to urge both parties to come back to the drawing tables. We particularly appeal to the Federal Government that they must play the role of the father figure by ensuring that labour comes back to the table, so that they can discuss and agree in order to avert the current suffering that the people are going through.
“The government must show concern, and sincerity that they are ready to shift ground enough for the labour to trust them and return to the negotiation table,” it said.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has also appealed to NLC and TUC to return to the negotiation table and be more patient in the dialogue.
CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement, noted that the demands of the unions for a fair and adequate minimum wage were understandable and justified.
“Nigerian workers deserve a living wage that meets their basic needs and ensures their well-being. At the same time, I am acutely aware of the devastating impact that this strike is having on our economy and the most vulnerable members of our society.
“The disruption of essential services and the economic strain on families are causing widespread distress and hardship on the people. I, therefore, appeal to the government to earnestly consider the plight of Nigerian workers and take decisive action to implement a living wage.
“Our workers are the backbone of our nation, and their well-being is integral to our collective prosperity. Similarly, I encourage the labour unions to conduct their protests in a peaceful and law-abiding manner, avoiding violence and the destruction of property. We must remember that our actions today will shape the Nigeria of tomorrow.”
He appealed to Nigerians to remain calm and steadfast.
“Let us unite in prayer for a swift and just resolution to this crisis. It is through our collective efforts, guided by faith and a commitment to peace, that we can build a nation that truly prioritizes the well-being of all its citizens.”
