Shehu Sani, a former Senator from Kaduna Central, has reacted to ongoing wage disputes between the Nigerian Labour Union and the Federal Government
Sani emphasized the significant financial implications for Nigerians if the Federal Government agrees to the proposed minimum wage of N494,000 by the Labour Union.
The socio-political activist asserted that the wage hike would directly affect the salaries of various household and service workers.
Sani took to his X account to voice his concerns, stating, “If the FG agrees to pay a minimum wage of 400k, that is what you have to pay your security guard, your house maid, your driver, your sales girl or boy, your gardener, your shop assistant, your cleaner…or you negotiate to pay half, which is 200k.”
Meanwhile, the Labour Union’s demand for a national minimum wage of N494,000, if approved, would result in a cumulative bill of N9.5 trillion for the Federal Government of Nigeria.
This proposal has sparked a heated debate, with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) issuing warnings of a potential strike should their demands not be met.
On Friday, both unions reiterated their stance, threatening to proceed with industrial action if the government fails to address their grievances over the minimum wage requirement. This situation has raised concerns about the broader economic impact on both public and private sectors.
Despite these pressures, the Federal Government remains firm on its position, insisting on a minimum wage of N60,000. This figure contrasts sharply with the Labour Union’s demand, setting the stage for a continued standoff