By Ovie Okpare
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it will embark on an indefinite strike on Wednesday October 16, 2019 following Federal Government refusal to implement the 29 per cent increase in the new minimum wage.
To this effect, the leadership of the NLC has directed its state chapters to mobilize their members for a full showdown.
The directive was contained in a letter to state councils of the union on Sunday.
NLC is demanding 29 per cent salary increase for officers on salary level 07 to 14 and 24 per cent adjustment for officers on salary grade level 15 to 17.
However, the FG presented a proposal of 11 per cent salary increase for officers on grade level 07 to 14 and 6.5 per cent adjustment for workers of grade level 15 to 17.
Labour disclosed that the first phase of negotiation between officials of the Federal Government and the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPNC) had failed.
Both parties are in disagreement due to percentage differences.
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It said if by Tuesday October 15, 2019, the federal government has not acceded to labour demands, its members will embark on an indefinite strike nationwide.
“You will recall that a joint communiqué was issued by the leadership of the NLC, Trade Union Congress and the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council stating that after two weeks from the date of the said communiqué, industrial harmony could not be guaranteed in the country should an agreement not be reached with the Federal Government on the consequential adjustment of salaries as a result of the new minimum wage of N30,000.
“You are hereby directed to coordinate preparations with TUC and JPSNC in your state for necessary industrial action should the time expire without an agreement as contained in the communiqué”, the letter read in part.
