The National Assembly (NASS) has constituted an intervention team to mediate between the Federal government and the organized labour on acceptable new minimum wage in an attempt to avert nationwide strike already declared to take effect from Monday, June 3, 2024 by Labour unions.
It would be recalled that on Friday, May 31, 2024, organised workers under the aegis of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) declared indefinite nationwide strike effective, Monday 3rd June, 2024, citing the federal government’s abandonment of negotiation of new minimum wage and refusal to revert to the old system of electricity tariff billings.
But the National Assembly on Sunday, June 2, 2024 said it acknowledged the announcement by Organised Labour, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), to commence an indefinite strike action from Monday, June 3, 2024, nationwide.
In a joint statement by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Senate Spokesman and
Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., House Spokesman, NASS recalled that the decision followed the deadlock between the Federal Government and the Labour Unions in agreeing on a new national minimum wage and reversal of the recent hike in electricity tariffs.
According to the statement, “As a responsive parliament, the leadership of the National Assembly, comprising the President of the Senate, H.E. Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, is taking proactive steps to mediate and avert the impending industrial action, which would have severe repercussions on the populace and economy.
“The National Assembly notes that both parties have tenable reasons for their respective positions.
“In view of this, the National Assembly Leadership and the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Labour, Employment and Productivity respectively, Senator Diket Plang, and Rep. Adegboyega Adefarati, are looking to engage both parties in constructive dialogue and explore a variety of solutions in addressing the issues at hand.
"The 10th National Assembly is committed to ensuring that the interests of all parties are fairly represented.
“We further urge all stakeholders to remain patient and co-operative as we work diligently to find a mutually acceptable resolution in the best interest of the country.”
