The House of Representatives recently criticized organised labour, specifically the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, for spreading misinformation about the earnings of lawmakers, labeling them as “fake.” This attempt to tarnish the reputation of legislators and incite public resentment was condemned by the House, citing potential damage to the credibility of the legislature.
In response to the breakdown in negotiations for a new national minimum wage, which led to an industrial action by NLC and TUC, the House supported the call for improved wages and better working conditions for workers. However, it emphasized the importance of a balanced approach to avoid adverse economic consequences like inflation and layoffs.
The House also criticized the shutdown of critical infrastructure during the strike, labeling it as economic sabotage. It called for accountability for those responsible and urged the union leadership to engage in transparent dialogue for a sustainable outcome.
While recognizing the right to dissent, the House urged organised Labour to consider the well-being of Nigerians and engage in constructive negotiations. The suspension of the strike after agreeing to push for a new minimum wage above N60,000 was seen as a step towards a mutually beneficial resolution.