JUST IN; Workers demand over 250, 000 as new Minimum Wage
JUST IN; Workers demand over 250, 000 as new Minimum Wage
Workers in Ondo State have called for an urgent upward review of the state’s minimum wage from N73,000 to N256,950, citing the harsh economic realities facing Nigerians.
In a formal request submitted to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa through the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliated unions, the workers argued that the current wage no longer reflects the cost of living, especially in light of the fuel subsidy removal and rising inflation.
The demand was detailed in a letter jointly signed by the NLC State Chairman, Comrade Ademola Olapade, and State Secretary, Comrade Akin Sunday.
They urged the governor to immediately set up a negotiation committee to begin discussions on a new wage structure.
The labour leaders insisted that the economic pressures on workers stemming from soaring prices of food, transport, housing, and healthcare have made the existing wage structure untenable.
They also pointed out that Ondo, as an oil-producing state, is better positioned financially than states like Imo, which has already started paying a N104,000 minimum wage to its workers and pensioners.
The workers emphasized that their demand is both necessary and feasible, and urged the government to act swiftly to address the growing financial strain on its workforce.
The letter, which also demanded upwards review of pension for retirees in the state, said “It is only just and reasonable that Ondo State, which is blessed with oil wealth and resource potential, does not lack behind but instead leads in setting progressive standards for others to emulate.
“Your Excellency, Ondo State is not just any state, it is a critical contributor to Nigeria’s oil revenue. As such, it is unacceptable that its workers and pensioners continue to live under wages that do not reflect the state’s strategic and financial status.
“Workers are the engine of governance and economic productivity and pensioners are citizens who had served with loyalty during their better years and deserve to live the remainder of their lives with dignity.
“In light of the above, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Ondo State Council and its affiliate Unions are formally demanding the immediate upward review of the minimum wage for Ondo State workers to the sum of #256,950. This figure will form a realistic reflection of the current economic indices and the prevailing cost of survival for an average.
“Governance must not only be about policies and projects but also about people’s welfare and ability to live dignified lives. A government that pays its workers and pensioners a just wage is a government that honours the social contract it holds with its people.”
