Labour

FG Seeks Collaboration with Labour Unions on Workers’ Welfare

By Web News 353

The Federal Government has solicited the cooperation of the Nigeria Labour Congress in promoting workers’ welfare and national productivity.

Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs Nkiruka Onyejeocha, stated this in Abuja when she paid a visit to the President and leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, as part of a strategy to mobilize critical stakeholders to align with the government’s agenda in the Labour sector.

Mrs Onyejeocha remarked that without the cooperation of the Labour union, it would be difficult for the government to better the lot of Nigerian workers.

According to the Minister, President Tinubu’s deep concern for the well-being of Nigerian workers was at the forefront of our discussions. I reiterated the government’s desire to partner with the NLC in propelling Nigeria forward towards a brighter future”

She said the government was ready to work with labour unions to promote the wellbeing of workers, as well as boost productivity in the service.

Mrs Onyejeocha decried the use of strikes to resolve industrial disputes as it disrupts the economy.

She therefore urged trade unions to regard strikes as the last resort in seeking resolution of trade disputes, pushing for implementation of agreement, or drawing the attention of government to the plight of workers and citizens.

According to the Minister, “Government is interested in the welfare of Nigerian workers. We are interested in their health and the environment in which they work. We are also interested in the wages they earn”.

“We will partner with you to ensure that Nigerian workers are satisfied. I am sure you will cooperate with the government to make sure our economy improves. Each time you embark on strike, the Nigerian economy goes down, and we incur a lot of losses.” she stated.

Responding, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, said that the Minister’s visit demonstrated care for Nigerian workers, as well as commitment to collaboration with the union to address their plight.

Comrade Ajaero promised that the Congress would always work together with the government in the interest of the workers.

He, however, urged the government to desist from violating Trade Union rights, and defaulting on agreements reached with Labour, as such actions brew trust gaps.

NLC President urged the Minister to push for the clearing of the backlog of agreements which the government reached with Labour.

FRCN Abuja Adeniyi Bakare/Adetutu Adetule

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Osun State NLC Gets New Leadership

By Web News 495

By Funmi Ojo

Chairman, Nigeria Civil Service Union, Osun State Chapter, Comrade Christopher Arapasopo has emerged Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Osun State Chapter.

At the 7th Triennial Delegates Conference with delegates from the 32 affiliate industrial unions in the state, held in Osogbo, Comrade Arapasopo polled a total vote of 270 to defeat his opponent, Comrade Olumide Faniran, who scored a total vote of 232.

Declaring the winner, the Electoral Officer who is the National Treasurer, Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Olatunji Ambali said Comrade Arapasopo having satisfied all the requirements put in place for the election was declared as the winner.

In his acceptance speech, the new state Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Arapasopo promised to accord the welfare of workers necessary priority, resuscitate Civil Service Week, embark on resuscitation of Productivity Day as well as resuscitation of Elders/Leaders Forum to serve as a think-tank for the congress.

While commending Governor Ademola Adeleke for giving priority to the welfare of serving and retired civil servants in the state, Comrade Arapasopo promised to lead by example.

Addressing newsmen after the election, the NLC National Treasurer, Comrade Olatunji Ambali charged the newly elected executive members to lead with the fear of God.

He appreciated the immediate past Caretaker Committee for holding forth and the conduct of members during the election.

Other members of the newly inaugurated Osun NLC executive committee are Mr Taoheed Babawale and Mr Emmanuel Adegboye who were elected Vice Chairmen, Mr. Emmanuel Olawuyi emerged Treasurer, while Mr Akintunde Ojo and Mrs Fatimah Olanrewaju were elected Auditors.

Also, Mrs. Funke Ibrahim and Tejumade Ayansola were elected as ex-officio members.

It would be recalled that the triennial delegates conference which ought to have been held last year was disrupted culminating in the setting up of a caretaker committee.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Adeleke Calls for Cohesion, Support from Workers

By Web News 313

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has urged workers to continue to maintain cohesion, love and support for the government under his leadership.

Governor Adeleke made the call at a special prayer to begin the activities for the year 2024 at the Governor’s office parking lot at Abere, Osun state.

The Governor who expressed his deep appreciation to workers, staff and top management across Ministries, Departments and Agencies enjoined them to continue to seek the face of God across the faiths for the success of the present administration.

Governor Adeleke while soliciting the prayers and guidance of royal fathers and religious leaders, said he believed that with God and people, the state government would achieve its lofty goals and agenda for the state.

Earlier in a message, the Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo state, Imam Taofeek Abdulhammed advised the Governor not to be carried away with praise singers and political sycophants who will not tell him the truth.

Also in short exhortation, the Chairman, of Osun State Christian Association of Nigeria, Reverend John Adeleke urged the Governor and other government officials to work with the fear of God

Prayers were offered to God for the Governor, state government, workers and the state for a great year 2024.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

Labour

Smiles as Wage Award Alerts Drop for Osun Workers

By Web News 286

By Funmi Ojo

In line with Governor Adeleke’s promise to Osun workers and retirees, wage award alerts have started dropping for Osun workers and pensioners.

Governor Adeleke had two weeks ago approved the wage award to cushion the effect of the subsidy removal.

Serving state workers were awarded Fifteen Thousand Naira while retirees were granted Ten Thousand Naira.

Workers and pensioners are to enjoy the wage award for six months starting from December 2023 to June 2024.

As at this morning, the beneficiaries are already receiving alerts, causing jubilation among the workers.

It would be recalled that the state government had also paid the December 2023 salaries while almost Three Billion Naira bond was issued  to pensioners at a recent ceremony at the state secretariat.

Speaking on the payment of the wage award, Governor Adeleke restated his commitment to workers welfare, ensuring that no stone will be left unturned to strengthen the well being of retirees and serving workers in the state.

Governor Adeleke further restate his commitment to the well being of the people.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

Labour

Adeleke Releases 1.6b Naira Bond Certificates for Retirees

By Web News 395

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has approved the release and distribution of bond certificates worth over 1.6 billion naira to retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

The Permanent Secretary, Local Government Staff Pension Bureau, Mr. Ibrahim Akibu made this known in a statement in Osogbo.

According to the statement, the 346 beneficiaries include 182 Primary school teachers and local government retired staff.

The presentation ceremony will take place on Thursday, 21st December, 2023, at the Local Government Service Commission building.

The statement adds that the presentation of the bond certificates is a continuation of the commitment of the state government to workers’ welfare, in and out of service.

It would be recalled that Governor Adeleke had commenced payment of inherited half salaries and other emoluments owed public servants by the past administration.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Alli, KKD, Kayrom Lee, Adeyoju Bag FRCN NUJ Awards

By Web News 481

By Olawale Asake

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ FRCN Ibadan Chapel has recognized some outstanding individuals during its gala and awards nite as part of activities Marking 2023 press week of the chapel.

Welcoming the guests with warm reception and dancing to various melodious songs at the Studio One broadcasting, Dugbe Ibadan, Chairman, NUJ FRCN Chapel, Mr Oluwakayode Banjo  said the occasion was to roll out drums, celebrate God’s faithfulness and wine and dine with the members of the Union who cladded in Uniform befitting attires, Awardees and colleagues in the federal radio corporation of Nigeria, FRCN Ibadan Oyo State.

Delving into the main business, the music through the Disc Jockey, DJ, thrilled the guests and staff of the Corporation with soothing songs as the Awards Presentation got underway.

Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Centre, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Liberty Oke Ado Ibadan, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde who was recognized as the Media Friendly Personality of the Year, was also invested as the Patroness of the Union, another Awardee, Chairman, SDM Group, Prince Niran Adeyoju stepped out to receive Outstanding Philanthropy Award and was also decorated as the Patron of the Union in the Chapel.

Senator representing Oyo South in the Senate, Sharafadeen Alli received an Award as an Outstanding Personality of the Year, while a Financial and Banking Executive, Chief Kolapo Kola-Daisi was being recognized for his Humanitarian Service to the Society.

Reacting, the four Awardees pledged an endless commitment and support to activities of NUJ, FRCN Ibadan Chapel, saying the members are always demonstrating professionalism in their lines of duty.

The event was attended by the Zonal Director, FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr Dominic Mokikan who urged members of the Union to continue making the Station proud as thoroughbred professionals.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Members of the Committee of Management, C.O.M. FRCN Ibadan and leaders of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Oyo State Council under Chief Ademola Babalola.

Labour

Adeleke Redeems Promise on Half Salary Debt

By Web News 435

By Funmi Adekoya

In fulfilment of his electoral promises, Governor Ademola Adeleke has again paid another half-salary debt, making four months of repayment since assuming office.

The Governor had earlier this year approved a memo for the phased payment of the 30 months’ half salaries debt inherited from the previous administration. 

A similar agreement was reached with the pensioners for the payment of outstanding pension and gratuity of 75 billion naira.

In his remark on the payment of the fourth quarter half salary, Governor Adeleke restated his commitment to the agreement he had with workers to gradually pay the huge salary and pension arrears inherited from his predecessor.

The Governor said he would continue to pay the inherited staff debt as he promised during his campaign to become governor of the state, stressing that he promised to address the staff debt issue with all seriousness and political will.

He assured workers that we would stick to the circular while the implementation would continue unabated alongside other welfare packages for both active workers and retirees.

The Governor added that he was committed to the implementation of the payment of palliative allowances recently approved by him for both workers and pensioners across the State, including local government workers.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

Labour

New salary begins April 1 2024 – FG

By Web News 1129

The Federal Government on Thursday said a new minimum wage regime would come into effect on April 1, 2024.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed, who disclosed this in an interview with newsmen in Abuja, said the current N30,000 minimum wage would expire at the end of March 2024.

Mohammed said this on Thursday as an analysis of the 2024 –2026 Fiscal Framework budgets by our correspondents indicated that the Federal Government would spend N24.66tn on salaries in 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Following the removal of the fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023, the Federal Government agreed to pay N35,000 to each of its workers to cushion the effect of the subsidy removal.

 But the organised Labour insisted that the N35,000 wage award was a temporary measure, adding that the minimum wage should be reviewed in 2024.

The Federal Government’s team and the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council on October 18, 2019, agreed on the implementation of the N30,00 minimum wage after months of negotiations.

However, Labour unions on Thursday confirmed that they had started a negotiation process with the Federal Government, adding that based on the country’s labour law, the minimum wage should be reviewed every five years.

The Nigeria Labour Congress National President, Joe Ajaero, recently said, “It is open knowledge that the review of the national minimum wage is a matter of the law which is expected to happen in 2024.”

On his part, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed, said that the improved take-home pay was meant to replace the temporary palliative measure put in place by the government to ameliorate the hardship caused by the fuel subsidy removal.

He said, “Certainly, there is a new wage regime that will come in on April 1, 2024. That is why these palliatives were targeted so they would cushion economic hardship before then. In our negotiation with Labour, we said that the wage issue was not something one could just fix. A committee that will also involve Labour itself will work on it.

“The committee is being constituted and we are talking to Labour about it. And by the time this current wage regime expires by the end of March, we will expect that a new wage will begin by April. It is in this wage regime that we will now have a proper salary structure for workers across the length and breadth of Nigeria. We expect that the private sector and state governors will also do the same.”

A top official of the NLC, in an interview said the organised Labour had initiated talks with the government

He said, “By April 1, 2024, the current minimum wage will expire. We have all agreed to set up a national wage negotiation committee, and that the committee should comprise all parties.’’

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

Labour

Labour Faults FG on Slashing Wage Award

By Web News 322

Labour Unions, on Wednesday, lambasted the Federal Government for slashing the supplementary budgetary allocation for wage awards to Federal civil servants by N100bn, warning that this was not the agreement they had with the government.

Data obtained from the newly Revised 2023 Supplementary Budget, indicated that in the proposed document, the four-month wage award was to cost the Federal Government around N210bn. However, the approved and newly revised document showed that it would now cost the Federal Government about N110bn.

Recall that the Federal Government, as part of steps to assuage labour unions, had granted a wage award of N35,000 to all federal government workers “beginning from September pending when a new national minimum wage is expected to have been signed into law.”

President Bola Tinubu had declared during his Independence Day speech that “low-grade workers” in the Federal civil service would be awarded a wage of N25,000.

The amount was then increased to N35,000 following discussions with the Organised Labour Unions, as this led to an increase of the wage bill to N315bn.

 However, civil servants received a single payment of N35,000 for September only, and not for two months as promised.

It is still unknown why the Federal government decided to slash the allocation of wage awards for federal workers, but the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress warned that this would be resisted.

Commenting on the development, the Assistant General Secretary, Nigeria Labour Congress, Chris Onyeka, said the agreement was for the government to raise the wages of Federal civil servants and not to reduce them.

He said, “Are you saying they cut down the wage awards by N100bn? Well, we have been talking about the high cost of governance and if they decided to reduce their bills by cutting down their numerous aides and assistants, that’s alright.

 “But if it is that they don’t want to pay workers what they are supposed to pay, then there is a problem. How can you subject workers to further reductions in their salaries? No way! We agreed to a wage award of N35,000 to all federal workers, so the wage award has to increase.”

Also speaking, the Head of Information, NLC, Benson Upah, said, “We were not informed before this was done. However, this behaviour is not inconsistent with the psychology of this government. It’s sad!”

The Trade Union Congress also warned the Federal Government against playing games with the wage award for Nigerian workers.

The National Deputy President, TUC, Tommy Etim, said, “The government cannot play games with the wage award because it was an agreement reached with the organised labour and the instrument of agreement reached was deposited in the court.

“The government is the manager of funds and our business is to ensure compliance to the agreement is reached.”

Efforts to get the Presidency to speak on why the wage award was reduced were unsuccessful, as officials contacted at the villa could not provide any explanation at the time of filing this report.

It would be recalled that the agreements made the organised labour suspend its proposed nationwide strike for 30 days, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government.

But the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, had added a caveat that the unions would revisit the agreement if the Federal government failed to fulfil their demands.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Nationwide Strike: Enugu Workers Defy Order

By Web News 372

Despite the directive issued to workers by the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and Trade Union Congress, TUC,  to embark on a nationwide strike on Tuesday, workers in Enugu State have shunned the strike.

Reports have it that the strike is largely not observed in the state.

Speaking in an interview with journalists about the strike, the Enugu State Chairman of NLC, Fabian Nwigbo said the NLC was working on how to mobilise for the strike.

“We are at a meeting and I am trying to prepare a letter to mobilise the workers for the strike. You know the order is coming from the national Secretariat,” he said.

However, newsmen who went to some areas in Enugu observed that banks were rendering services to their customers.

It was also observed that workers of some government agencies came to work early in the morning.

At the Government Revenue Office along Zik Avenue, it was observed that workers were in their various offices while a bank along Agbani Road was also rendering services to their customers.

Similarly, both private and government schools also failed to observe the strike as teachers were teaching their students and pupils in their various schools.

A civil servant who spoke on condition of anonymity blamed the leadership of both NLC and TUC for the non-compliance, saying they failed to act.

It was also observed that there were heavy vehicular activities on the major roads while the markets were open for businesses.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

NLC Strike: Ogun, Oyo Witnessed Partial Compliance

By Web News 495

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke/ Iyabo Adebisi

The nationwide strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and the Trade Union Congress,TUC, witnessed partial compliance in Ogun State with a section of the workers absent at their duty posts while others claimed the strike was yet to commence. 

Radio Nigeria Correspondents observed a reduction in business activities in public outlets across major cities in the state but many workers at the Federal and State Secretariats located at Oke Mosan area of the state capital were found at their duty posts.

Visits to some primary health centres also revealed that the workers did not turn up but medical and health workers at the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba as well as the State Hospital, Ijaye Abeokuta were attending to patients without any disruption when Radio Nigeria crew visited the hospitals around 10 or clock in the morning. 

Some of the workers who pleaded not to have their identities revealed said the strike was yet to take effect, claiming that the union leaders in the state had not issued a convincing directive to enforce the strike. 

Addressing newsmen on the matter, the state NLC Chairman, Mr Ademola Benco who said executives of the congress had gone around to see the level of compliance, insisted that the directive must be strictly followed in line with the directives of the national body 

Also, the State Secretary, Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, Mr Samson Oyelere who said some students were sent back home today emphasized the strike would take full effect by tomorrow as schools would not be opened. 

Some parents had earlier complained over the controversy about the strike, pointing out that some of their children and wards were kept in class, while some schools sent their pupils back home. 

The story is not different in Oyo State as workers partially complied with the directive of the national body of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to down tools over the harsh treatment meted out to the Chairman of NLC, Joe Ajaero in Imo state. 

Radio Nigeria correspondent who monitored the level of compliance in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital especially at the Federal and state Secretariats observed that there was partial compliance with the directive.

The entrance gates of the federal and state secretariats were open for workers without anybody preventing them from gaining entrance to their different offices.

The entrance gates of the offices of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) at Ring road and Dugbe were locked while workers and customers were prevented from gaining entrance.

Commercial activities were also going on at different banks in the state.

In an interview with Radio Nigeria, the Oyo State NLC Chairman, Mr Kayode Martins said the state NLC stands by the directive of the national body for workers to stay at home.

Mr Martins said the fight was done to protect the hope of the common man condemning the manner the NLC chairman was apprehended and beaten in Imo state over the labour matters between the government and  Labour in the state. 

Mr Martins therefore called on the Federal government to arrest the situation before it get out of hands

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

NLC President Recounts Ordeal in Owerri

By Web News 422

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero on Friday said that he was arrested in Owerri by the Police and was handed over to waiting thugs that got him thoroughly beaten.

Comrade Ajaero said the thugs who were about seven in number dragged him on the floor like a common criminal.

Briefing journalists in Abuja, the NLC president said the NLC wrote to all the security agencies before they went to the state for the protest on November I.

According to him, workers who arrived at the venue of the protest on that day around 7 am were beaten up by thugs with their phones seized.

Ajaero said he got there around 9 am after he got the report of an assault on workers, adding that the police arrested him and handed him over to thugs.

He said: “I can’t explain the beating I received. They tied my hands and dragged me on the floor like a common criminal.”

The NLC President denied the allegation by the Imo State government that he is a card carrying member of the Labour Party.

“I am not a card-carrying member of any political party as alleged,” he said.

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Oluwo to Labour, Shelve Proposed Strike

By Web News 416

By Adenitan Akinola 

The Oluwo of Iwo land, Oba AbdulRosheed Adewale Akanbi has appealed to Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) to shelve its planned nationwide strike.

Oba Akanbi urged the labour leaders to be patient with President Tinubu so that he could prove himself.

He made the appeal at a function in his palace where religious leaders gathered to pray for leaders of the country and praise God.

The monarch said it was obvious that things were tough and hard for Nigerians, but they should know that the present government did not create the hardship and that is why Nigerians needs to be patient.

He expressed confidence that the present administration meant well as shown in many bold decisions taken including the removal of fuel subsidy. 

“This is just temporary hardship, subsidy is not for the poor man. No country in the world subsidize fuel, what should be subsidize is housing and transportation”. 

While positing that there was nothing wrong in checkmating the government, Oluwo said “If this government does something wrong I will be the first person to criticize the president or any governor, nobody can dethrone me, you can see that I am celebrating God who is undethronable. 

“NLC need to keep the president on its toes, they need to remind him of his responsibilities. Don’t strike but let him know that he must do the bidding of Nigerians,” he urged them.

Echoing a similar view, the royal father of the day, Olofa of Ofa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye expressed optimism that the president would improve the economy of the country.

Oba Gbadamosi said “If our past leaders have been removing the fuel subsidy, it will not have harsh effect the way it does now. 

“I have the believe that Tinubu will improve the economy of the nation and perform more than our expectations. We need to pray for him, it is not healthy to throw abuses on him”.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Ajaero Attack: NLC, TUC Issue Nationwide Strike Notice

By Web News 448

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and its Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, counterpart have given November 8, strike notice to the Federal Government over Wednesday’s attacks, abduction and battering of NLC President, Joe Ajaero, among others.

Leaders of the NLC and TUC at a briefing Friday, gave the Federal Government a six-point demand, including the immediate removal of the Commissioner of Police, Imo State and Area Commander, among other officials, for their alleged complicity in the brutalisation and humiliation of Comrade Ajaero and other workers.

Recall that suspected agents of the state and security operatives had descended on Ajaero alongside other Labour leaders, smashing their vehicles, inflicting injuries on them and dispossessing handsets, money, and ATM cards among other valuables from the Labour leaders and others who had gathered at the NLC State secretariat to begin a scheduled protest over pending labour issues.

The NLC President, other national leaders of NLC and their Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, counterpart were at the state Secretariat in Owerri to protest among other grievances, the backlog of unpaid salaries and allowances, pensions, gratuities, and non-compliance with the National Minimum Wage Act.

The attack, brutalisation and battering of Ajaero have elicited outrage and condemnation across the country.
Leaders of NLC and TUC are billed to meet on Tuesday next week to decide on an appropriate response to the attack.

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTubeChannels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Protest: NLC President in Police Custody

By Web News 513

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, on Wednesday, allegedly arrested the National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Joe Ajaero in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

The Head of Information, NLC, Benson Upah, who spoke with newsmen, noted that Ajaero was picked up at the state secretariat of the congress and taken to an unknown location.

“President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero was picked up a few minutes ago from NLC state council secretariat by heavily armed policemen in Owerri and taken to an unknown destination,” Upah said.

It was reported that the NLC had vowed to mobilise its members for a total strike in Imo state starting today, November 1, 2023.

Accusing the state governor Hope Uzodimma of neglecting workers’ welfare, Ajaero lamented that many of them have died because of the alleged lack of payment of their salaries.

He outlined some of the infractions against workers by Uzodimma, including the alleged refusal to implement previous agreements especially the accord reached on January 9, 2021, outstanding salary arrears of about 20 months, unjust declaration of workers as ghost workers, declaration of pensioners as ghost workers and unsettled gratuity arrears, among others.

According to him, approximately 10,000 pensioners have been wrongly labeled as ghost pensioners resulting in over 22 months of unpaid pensions while about 11,000 workers have been branded by the Imo State Government as ghost workers.

The NLC president also lamented the non-compliance with the national minimum wage by the state government, adding that Governor Uzodinma has resisted the use of social dialogue and collective bargaining to resolve the issues.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

NLC Poised for Showdown with Imo Govt on Nov 1

By Web News 460

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has said it will mobilize its members to storm Imo State on Wednesday, November 1.

Briefing journalists at the Labour House on Sunday in Abuja, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, accused the Imo State Government of violating the rights of the Nigerian workers in the state.

Accusing Governor Hope Uzodimma of neglecting workers’ welfare, Ajaero lamented that many of them have died because of the alleged lack of payment of their salaries.

He outlined some of the infractions against workers by the Imo State Governor including the alleged refusal to implement previous agreements especially the accord reached on January 9, 2021, outstanding salary arrears of about 20 months, unjust declaration of workers as ghost workers, declaration of pensioners as ghost workers and unsettled gratuity arrears among others.

According to him, approximately 10,000 pensioners have been wrongly labelled as ghost pensioners resulting in over 22 months of unpaid pensions while about 11,000 workers have been branded by the Imo State Government as ghost workers.

The NLC President also lamented the non-compliance with the national minimum wage by the state government, adding that Governor Uzodinma has resisted the use of social dialogue and collective bargaining to resolve the issues.

Meanwhile, The National Industrial Court sitting in Owerri the Imo state capital has issued an extended interim injunction restraining the organized Labour from embarking on any kind of strike in Imo state.

Both the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress are further ordered not to embark on OCCUPY IMO, as planned, until the next adjourned date.

Justice Nelson Ogbuanya gave the order after hearing the submissions of the Attorney General of Imo State, Cyprian Akaolisa, who approached the court to grant an extended  interim order against the defendants in view of their fresh threat to embark on strike through occupy Imo.

The defendants are Nigeria Labour Congress and the Secretary General,  Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja and the Trade Union Congress and its secretary General, Comrade Nuhu Toro.

In the suit No NICN/ OW/41/2023, in which the Attorney General of Imo State and the Imo State Government  are applicants,  they prayed that since there is a subsisting order restraining the defendants from going on strike, the order should be extended.

Their argument was hinged on an affidavit by which the first defendant (NLC) by a letter dated 16th October, 2023 is currently mobilizing its members from the South East and South South  for a strike to occupy Imo from November 01,2023.

After hearing from both counsels in the suit, the court granted the order of  extended interim injunction restraining the defendants from embarking on any strike in whatever guise.

The court warned against the disobedience of its order, saying that it will attract consequences.

The Court adjourned the matter to November, 03,2023 for either hearing or report of settlement.

Channels/Adebukola Aluko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Accolades as Oyo NUJ Holds Pen Night

By Web News 583

By Dayo Adu

It was a night of accolades as Journalists in Oyo State, on Friday, converged on Jogor centre, Ibadan to recognise distinguished individuals and corporate organisations for their impacts in the society.

The event tagged Pen Night climaxed the week-long 2023 press week of the union was filled with merriments and the dinning between men of the fourth estate of the realm with who is who in the society.

The atmosphere got charged when award recipients took their turn to receive award plaque in recognition of their exploits in the nation.

Receiving the award of Most Consistent politician, Deputy National Chairman (South) of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, who chronicled his political journey since 1996, praised members of the Oyo NUJ for being objective and unbiased in their reportage of political events.

“They are reporting things and being fair to everybody, they are doing a good job, they should continue, we are very happy with what journalists are doing in Oyo state, it’s a good job.”

In a goodwill message, President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, CCII,  Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole, enjoined journalists to work towards the development of Ibadanland and Oyo state in general to enable it sustain the pace setter status both in Nigeria and African.

Earlier in an address of welcome, Chairman NUJ Oyo State Council, Alhaji Demola Babalola, urged the government to leverage on the potentials of technology to improve the living standard of the people, noting that the current economic realities in the country required a holistic approach to ameliorate the suffering of the masses.

“This day in Nigeria, there’s poverty, parents can no longer afford to pay school Fees and buy books for their children anymore, people are hurt, poverty is  everywhere. Government should invest in artificial intelligence to advance the course of economy and fastback the development of  the country.”

Alhaji Babalola advised President Bola Tinubu to rejig his economic policies to crash down the exchange rates and enhance the purchasing power of naira both in local and foreign markets.

Labour

Osun Government Introduces New Screening Method for Pensioners

By Web News 406

By Adenitan Akinola

Following the near death incident on Monday, where three pensioners collapsed, the Osun State Government has directed that all bedridden pensioners and others with serious health challenge will henceforth have their audit exercise conducted through telephone. 

 A statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi reveals that such pensioners, would no longer be required to be physically present at the venue of the screening exercise.

 The statement adds that pensioners who are currently outside the State would have their screening conducted via the same means. 

 It also says “Pensioners outside the state at the moment no longer need to travel down to Osun State as they will also be having their screening through the telephone. “Additionally, pensioners in the diaspora will also be screened only through video calls. 

 “In line with the above, the Pension Board is expected to make available all the particulars, especially pictures of pensioners to the Consultant, for ease of identification during the video call screenings. “The above directives take immediate effect.” 

 Recall that three members of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) Osun State chapter on Monday collapsed , during the ongoing staff audit exercise of the state workforce at the Center for Black Culture and International Understanding in Osogbo.

Retirees, numbering about 2,000 old men and women who are visibly aged, frail and in some cases sick, were seen at the venue of the screening. 

 A number of them who could not withstand long standing were seen either, lying down, sleeping or sitting on the bare floor to avoid eventuality. 

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Pensioners Collapse While Waiting Endlessly for Osun Staff Audit

By Web News 413

By Adenitan Akinola 

Three pensioners today collapsed in Osogbo during the ongoing staff audit exercise organized by the Osun State Government for its workers.

The incident, it was gathered, threw members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners NUP into confusion as they ran from helter-skelter to revive their collapsed colleagues.

It took the intervention of the medics of the State Ambulance Service to revive and stabilise the victims.

Retirees, numbering about 2,000 old men and women, who are visibly aged, frail and in some cases sick, were at the premises of the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding, Osogbo, the venue of the ongoing screening exercise.

A number of them who could not withstand a long time standing were seen, lying down, sleeping or sitting on the bare floor and the grass to avoid any eventuality.

Radio Nigeria correspondent, who was at the venue of the screening exercise, reports that many of the pensioners were visibly angry for what they described as inhuman treatment by the handlers of the exercise.

One of them, Mr Samuel Aduroroja decried the arrangement and the eventual treatment of his colleagues, who came for the exercise from across the state.

Though, he agreed that the exercise as sanctioned by the State government was desirable, but was of the opinion that the process would have been made easier if it were to be done on local government or zonal basis.

At press time, the exercise was yet to commence as the consultant in charge, Saadat Bakri-Ottun, was yet to arrive at the venue while the aged pensioners continued to wait endlessly.

The staff audit was earlier suspended for weeks by the State House of Assembly over the inhuman treatment meted out to the civil servants by the consultant, but the suspension was lifted after she promised to correct her mistakes.

Recall that pensioners had called on the state government to decentralize the staff audit of the state workforce.

The pensioners under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Osun State Chapter said they were in the total support of the staff audit, but the government should put the aged and helpless retirees into consideration by decentralizing it.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Strike suspension, a temporary move – Labour

By Web News 388

The Trade Union Congress on Saturday said the suspension of its October 1 nationwide strike was a temporary move. It noted that it remained conditional upon the fulfillment of the promise by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration to fulfill the conditions enlisted in the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Federal Government and the Organised Labour.

Labour also dismissed the claim by governors that they would not implement the demands in the MoU between the Federal Government and the organised labour on the grounds that governors had rolled out palliatives for state civil servants and residents before the MoU was signed.

The National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress, Tommy Etim, made these known in an interview with newsmen in Abuja on Saturday.

It would be recalled that the organised Labour and the Federal Government had signed a 15-point agreement in the MoU, which was made public on October 1, 2023.

Speaking on reports that governors might not implement the terms of the agreement, Etim stated, “That is not possible. Anyways, the truth is that we have reached out to our people in the states to meet with them. Letters have also been sent to that effect.”

On the progress reached so far with the government, the labour leader said, “The 30-day ultimatum we gave to them is still in place. We have given them time and we are sure they are working. What we did was just a suspension. When you suspend a strike, you can kickstart it without further notice. We have done our part and we are waiting for them to play their part.”

Punch/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Makinde Inaugurates Wage Committee

By Web News 539

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has inaugurated an eleven-man ADHOC Inter-ministerial committee on the harmonization of the demands by the labour unions in the state.

Speaking at the event held at the Executive Chambers of the Agodi, Secretariat, Ibadan,Governor Makinde

promised to apply home-grown solutions to address the myriad of demands of the Labour Unions in the state to ameliorate the effect of fuel subsidy removal.

He urged the committee to formulate a sustainable roadmap capable of building confidence in the citizenry and creating continuous harmony between the government and the labour unions in the state.

The governor stressed that constant engagements with labour unions at the state level is key to fast tracking socioeconomic development.

In a remark, the Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State Chapter,Mr Kayode Martin called on government to do more in cushioning the effects of fuel subsidy removal on citizens.

The committee has a four week time-frame to formulate a sustainable roadmap to ameliorate the effect of fuel subsidy on the masses.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTubeChannels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Osun Working on 6-month Maternity Leave

By Web News 418

By Funmi Adekoya

Osun State government is set to enact modalities to give six months maternity leave for nursing mothers in the State’s civil service.

The Special Adviser on Public Health to the Osun State Governor, Dr. Akindele Adekunle stated this at the one day symposium on celebrating enabling breastfeeding environment for working mothers held at the Local Government service commission, Abere.

Dr. Akindele said in line with the Wold Health Organization, W.H.O, recommendations and in concerted effort with the Wives of Nigerian Governor’s Forum advocacy for approval of six months paid maternity leave for nursing mothers, Governor Adeleke is set to send a bill to the House of Assembly to domesticate enabling law.

He pleaded and advised the public that whenever there’s any public hearing by the House of Assembly concerning the bill, all stakeholders must raise their voice in support of the bill.

Dr. Akindele further assured of the governor’s readiness to carry out a face-lift of the primary and secondary health facilities across the Osun State.

In a remark, the Wife of the Governor, Chief Titilola Adeleke also affirmed her readiness to advocate and work with relevant stakeholders to ensure the realisation of the agenda.

“I use this medium to tell this gathering that I am committed and will work tiredlessly with other critical stakeholders to ensure the approval of six months paid maternity leaves and other favourable maternal policies for working mothers in the State ” The Governor’s wife stated.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Labour Shelves Strike, Gives Conditions

By Web News 413

Two major Nigerian Labour Unions have suspended the nationwide strike they were to commence on Tuesday to pressure the government to address the hardships occasioned by the removal of subsidy on petrol.

Both the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), coalitions of various workers unions, have been battling the federal government over the fallout of the subsidy removal which President Bola Tinubu announced in his inauguration speech on 29 May.

Since the removal of the subsidy, the petrol pump price which was selling at less than N200 per litre has increased to over N600 per litre, leading to an increase in the cost of transportation, food and other basic needs and services which millions of Nigerians depend on.

The labour unions announced their decision to suspend their strike in a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the representatives of the labour unions and the federal government late on Monday.

According to the MoU, the unions will now suspend their strike by 30 days, with parties to the agreement committing “to henceforth abide by the dictates of Social dialogue in all our future engagements.”

“The NLC and TUC accept to suspend for 30 days the planned Indefinite Nationwide strike scheduled to begin, Tuesday, the 3rd of October, 2023,” the MoU shared with Newsmen late Monday, read in part.

The MoU also stipulated that the document shall be filed in “relevant court of competent jurisdiction within one (1) week as consent judgment by the Federal Government.”

The document was signed by NLC representatives – its president, Joe Ajaero, and the secretary, Emmanuel Ughoaja – as well as TUC representatives – its president, Festus Usifo, and general secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja.

Officials who signed the agreement on behalf of the federal government are the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Bako Lalong; the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

The MoU contains terms and conditions both sides had earlier agreed on.

Premium Times / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTubeChannels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

TUC Ends NEC Meeting, Set for Parley with FG

By Web News 512

The Trade Union Congress a few hours ago concluded its National Executive Council meeting following deliberations on the new wage award for civil servants in the country by President Bola Tinubu, to cushion the effects of subsidy removal on Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol.

The labour centre is expected to meet with representatives of the government on whether the offer by the government was accepted by the members.

The National Deputy President of the TUC, Tommy Etim, made this known in an interview with our correspondent in Abuja on Monday.

When asked, Etim who doubles as the national president of the Association of Senior Civil Servants noted that the labour leaders met earlier and received recommendations from members of its NEC and would go ahead to meet with the representatives of the government later.

He said, “We just concluded our meeting a few hours ago and we received some recommendations from our members which we will convey to the government later today.”

The PUNCH reports that on Sunday, President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, noted that the two labour centres, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the TUC, had some agreements with the government and may end up suspending their proposed nationwide strike.

According to Gbajabiamila, the Federal Government had agreed to come up with measures that would address the dispute arising from the removal of the fuel subsidy.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, the NLC president promised to meet with members of the union to consider the offers by the FG to suspend the planned strike.

Details later…

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Labour

Nationwide Strike: FG Invites NLC, TUC for Emergency Parley

By Web News 455

The Federal Government, in a desperate move to avert the planned nationwide strike from October 3, has summoned an emergency meeting with the leaders of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and their Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, counterpart.

Vanguard gathered the meeting is scheduled to hold later this evening at Aso Villa, Conference Room of the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President.

It was gathered that the government had earlier fixed the meeting for 12 noon today, but had to be shifted to evening to enable Organised Labour to reach out to their leaders outside Abuja.

According to sources, the NLC and its TUC counterpart received the government’s invitation this morning through the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group