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By *BISHOP AKHALAMHE*
PhD, fcsi.
Onoshoze of Edo State.
The objective of labour union is to protect, defend and promote the rights, well-being and interest of members but in recent time, some Nigerians have described the union as toothless bulldog. This is motivated by the inability of the union to mobilized against some obvious harsh government policies which have led to the hardship in the country.
The labour congress went to sleep when fuel subsidy was removed. Where was NLC, when government increased electricity tariff? These were some of the obvious economic decisions which have reflected in the living condition of the average Nigerian. Workers salaries can no longer take them home. Workers now spend their salaries on transport.
Fighting for increase in minimum wage when the economy is already in comatose, is cosmetic and unrealistic remedy. We failed to fight when it was necessary. It is unprecedented that Nigerians now buy fuel between #750 and #850 per litre. We forgot the increase will reflect in all sectors of the economy. What a shame! The multiplier effects cannot be imagined. Nigerians are suffering but smiling. This situation has proven that Nigerians are not resilient but captured by their leaders.The hardship in Nigeria cannot be measured. I remember with nostalgia, the leadership of comrade Adams Aliu Omokpa Nabevholo Oshiomole who was always in the streets of Nigeria to protest the hike of fuel price. We all benefited from his leadership as NLC president. What has happened to today's NLC?
Fighting for the increase of workers salaries is mercy after death. The increase of minimum wage to #1,000,000 will not solve the challenge but will escalate it to another level of hardship. Are we prepared for another level of inflation when government decide to increase wages? The market women are waiting, Keke riders are waiting etc. What happens to those in the private sector? This fight is segmented and selfish. To promote the welfare of the people, we must fight the root cause of our problems not the symptoms.
Call off the strike. Wrong fight can sabotage the economy. This fight is cosmetic.
*DR.BISHOP AKHALAMHE*
Educationist, Author of many books, research fellow, Accounting scholar, resource person and Edo 2024 ZLP governorship candidate.
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