The Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress on Monday condemned the declaration made by the Governors’ Forum that it could no longer afford to pay the N18,000 minimum wage to workers, describing the call as an act of wickedness and irresponsible governance on the part of the governors.
State Chairman of the union, Waheed Olojede, told our correspondent that the call was even more painful because it was coming at a time when the workers were no longer being paid as of when due, coupled with the unpalatable living condition they had been subjected to.
The forum had said states were no longer in a position to pay the amount due to dwindling economic fortunes of the nation as a result of the slump in oil revenue, a position Olojede faulted.
He said, “We still view this from the perception of wickedness, irresponsible governance and callousness of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, for them to decide to reduce the N18,000 minimum wage, which was approved five years ago. The law says that after five years, the minimum wage should be reviewed.PUNCH NG
