4th June, 2024
By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has condemned the decision of organized labour to shut down the national grid, labeling it as economic sabotage.
Akpabio made these remarks during a Senate session following a motion brought forward by Diket Plang, senator representing Plateau central, regarding the ongoing indefinite strike by labor unions.
The strike, initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on Monday, aimed to protest the government’s failure to establish a new minimum wage for workers.
Despite the government’s initial proposals ranging from N48,000 to N60,000, labor unions have persisted in demanding N615,500 and subsequently N494,000.
The nationwide strike paralyzed government operations and economic activities, resulting in the shutdown of the national grid.
However, on Tuesday, labour unions opted to ease the strike to facilitate further negotiations with the federal government.
Akpabio expressed dissatisfaction with the strike’s impact, particularly its disruption of the ongoing West African School Certificate Examination (WAEC).
He characterized the shutdown of the national grid and other disruptions, such as hajj flights and student examinations, as detrimental actions.
While acknowledging labor’s decision to suspend the strike for negotiation purposes, the senate president revealed the importance of avoiding such disruptions in the future.