The organized labour in Abia State has issued a final ultimatum to the government over unpaid wages and palliatives, setting the stage for an indefinite strike starting July 15. Learn about the key issues and the potential impact on the state.
The organized labour in Abia State has issued a final ultimatum to the state government, threatening to commence an indefinite strike on July 15 due to the alleged non-payment of the N30,000 minimum wage and a N35,000 palliative award. This decision comes despite promises from Governor Alex Otti to implement new wages once the Federal Government concludes negotiations with organized labour.
In a letter dated July 8, 2024, signed by the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Abia State, Okoro Ogbonnaya, and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Enogwe Ihechi, the labour leaders communicated their ultimatum to Governor Otti through his Chief of Staff. The organized labour’s decision to issue a final seven-day notice followed a general meeting held on the same day.
The letter, which was seen by ALL FACTS NEWSPAPER, stated that a previous 14-day ultimatum had expired without any response from the government. This lack of engagement has left the workers feeling neglected and ignored, prompting the decision to proceed with an indefinite strike in line with national directives regarding non-compliance by the Abia State government.
The letter partially read: “Organized labour hereby issues this final seven (7) days ultimatum with effect from the day of receipt of this letter and states unequivocally, that at the expiration of this ultimatum, on Sunday 00hr, there shall be no further communication with the government.”
This ultimatum signals a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between the Abia State government and its workers. The workers’ demands for fair wages and palliatives have not been met, despite earlier assurances. This looming strike could disrupt essential services and significantly impact the state’s operations if a resolution is not reached promptly.
In recent years, Nigeria’s labour sector has faced numerous challenges, with similar situations arising in other states where workers have protested against unfair treatment and unpaid wages. This situation in Abia is reflective of a broader national issue, where the gap between government promises and actual implementation often leads to unrest.
As the deadline approaches, the government’s response will be crucial in determining whether the strike can be averted. The outcome will likely set a precedent for how labour disputes are handled in the future, both in Abia and across Nigeria.
