NLC Condemns State Governors for Flouting Minimum Wage Act

Chris Onyeka, the Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has condemned several state governors for their persistent refusal to implement the National Minimum Wage Act, citing disregard for the law and fiscal indiscipline as major factors.

Onyeka made these remarks during an interview in Abuja on Monday, highlighting the dire situation faced by workers across affected states.

According to Onyeka, despite the enactment of the N30,000 minimum wage in 2019, 15 states have yet to comply with the law, causing widespread concern among workers.

He emphasized that the recent increase in state revenues following the removal of fuel subsidies has not translated into improved wage payments for civil servants.

"The non-implementation of the minimum wage by some state governors reflects their lack of respect for the rule of law," Onyeka stated.

"Many of these governors view state resources as their personal assets and are reluctant to allocate funds for workers' salaries, whom they see as mere appendages."

He further criticized what he described as a culture of fiscal irresponsibility and personal greed among some governors, accusing them of diverting public funds for private gain.

Onyeka called for urgent measures to streamline governance costs, including reducing the number of political appointees and curtailing unnecessary expenditures on official vehicles and residences.

"The salaries and allowances of elected officials should align with those of civil servants to promote fairness and accountability," Onyeka emphasized.

He also urged state governments to improve transparency in procurement processes and eliminate loopholes that facilitate corruption.

Regarding enforcement of the minimum wage law, Onyeka suggested stricter measures, including withholding federal allocations to defaulting states until compliance is achieved.

He stressed the need for robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure governors adhere to legal provisions on wage payments.

In conclusion, Onyeka urged state governors to prioritize workers' welfare and uphold their obligations under the law.

He called on the federal government and relevant authorities to intervene decisively to ensure that workers receive their due wages promptly.