The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Kebbi State chapter has criticised the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) attitude on implementing the N75,000 naira minimum wage for local government workers in the state.
In a statement to the press on Saturday, Murtala Usman, the state NLC chairman, stressed that the labour union’s mission is to represent workers’ welfare and interests, not to act as government agents.
While acknowledging the necessity of opposition in Nigeria’s democratic process, the NLC chairman encouraged constructive debate on the subject.
“The welfare of local government employees is critical. These individuals form the backbone of our communities, and their well-being should be a shared priority,” Usman said, commending Governor Nasiru Idris for his prompt action in implementing the new minimum wage, following its approval by the Federal Government.
He continued, “Governor Idris is one of the few governors to implement the new wage immediately, a move that has significantly improved the livelihoods of workers.
“This commitment also includes other initiatives aimed at enhancing working conditions and job satisfaction.”
While urging the opposition to participate honestly, Usman reflected on previous obstacles, claiming that earlier minimum wage increases, such as the N18,000 and N30,000 thresholds, had not been implemented at the local government level.
The NLC also urged the PDP to engage in lobbying for better working conditions for local government employees, emphasising collaboration over criticism.
“By working together, we can build on the progress made and continue to improve workers’ conditions for the benefit of the communities they serve.”
The PDP had previously expressed concerns over disparities in minimum wage implementation, stating that many local government employees and teachers were paid less than the agreed-upon N75,000 pay.
Dododo also challenged the Kebbi state government, saying, “Despite the agreed minimum wage, the state is still paying less than N40,000 to staff on GL 3, 4, and 5.”
He also questioned the government’s emphasis on political appointments, accusing it of ignoring the education sector and grassroots development.
The PDP finished by urging the state government to keep its pledges to teachers, emphasising their critical role in creating society’s future and the importance of prioritising their well-being.
