Former National Vice President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Isa Tijjani, has cautioned the leadership of the Joe Ajaero-led faction of the NLC against precipitating a crisis through excessive strike actions. Tijjani, also a former Secretary of NLC in Kano State, voiced his concerns while addressing journalists in Kano over the weekend.
He urged labor leaders to meticulously assess issues before resorting to strikes that could potentially disrupt the nation’s stability.
Tijjani emphasized the need for strikes to be viewed as a means to an end rather than an end in themselves. He expressed worry over the declining significance of strikes in recent times, contrasting it with the reverence they once commanded.
Tijjani criticized the proposal for a minimum wage of N450,000, labeling it as impractical. He argued that such a substantial increase could strain government resources and questioned the feasibility of its implementation, especially considering the current challenges in meeting the existing N30,000 minimum wage.
Furthermore, Tijjani emphasized the importance of collective bargaining and negotiation, highlighting the need for compromise and realism in labor demands. He warned against the potential consequences of uncompromising stances, underscoring the importance of maintaining stability to prevent the nation from descending into crisis.
Regarding recent remarks by President Tinubu suggesting that the NLC should function as an opposition party and contest elections in 2027, Tijjani disagreed. He suggested that rather than making such statements, the President should convene discussions to address prevailing issues effectively.
Tijjani’s remarks underscore the ongoing tensions within the labor movement and the broader socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria. As the nation grapples with issues of wages, labor rights, and political dynamics, his insights provide valuable perspectives on navigating these complexities.
