- By Kamil Opeyemi
Angry lawmakers in Nigeria’s lower chamber on Wednesday accused the leadership of the organised labour of spreading falsehood over their take home pay and allowances.
The lawmakers said with the exaggerated salary strcutures being alluded to the lawmakers, the leaders of Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress are setting Nigerians against them.
The House made this known in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, on Tuesday.
The statement read, “The House of Representatives acknowledges the recent industrial action undertaken by the NLC and the TUC due to the breakdown in negotiations for a new national minimum wage.
“The People’s House is pleased to note that the strike action has been suspended for one week to allow for further negotiation.
“During this period, as we have previously demonstrated, the People’s House remains responsive and committed to actively engaging all stakeholders to resolve the issues in the best interest of Nigerians.
“House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has consistently advocated a living wage and better working conditions for workers.
“At various fora, he has emphasised the importance of addressing key national priorities, including the state of the economy and insecurity, through legislative action.
“While the Green Chamber is in full support of the call for improved wages and working conditions, there is a great need to exercise caution in increasing the minimum wage beyond what our economy can sustain to avoid unintended outcomes such as inflation, layoffs, and other adverse economic consequences.
“Thus, we restate the importance of approaching this issue from a balanced perspective to ensure long-term stability and prosperity for all.
“In the same vein, we observed with concern the direction of the strike action before its suspension and what it portends for the future.”