By Abubakar Yunusa
As tensions rise between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Government over the proposed minimum wage, Nigerians are voicing concerns on social media, urging the NLC to avoid disrupting the national grid during any strike action.
On Monday, the NLC firmly rejected the government’s proposals of ₦62,000 and ₦100,000 as the new minimum wage. Chris Onyeka, the Assistant General Secretary, called these offers “starvation wages.”
“Our position is very clear. We have never considered accepting ₦62,000 or any other wage that we know is below what can take Nigerian workers home. We will not negotiate a starvation wage,” Onyeka asserted on Channels Television.
The NLC continues to demand a ₦250,000 minimum wage, which Onyeka described as “enough concession to the government and the other social partners.”
With the federal government’s grace period expiring at midnight on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Nigerians are flooding social media with appeals to keep the national grid operational during the strike.
“Do not touch the national grid. Please, I am begging you,” tweeted @TaoFeek182.
“You guys should do whatever you want to do, but please keep off from the power grid this time. Let’s all sit home and relax peacefully,” added @Ishow_leck.
Concerns about the impact of a nationwide power outage, following a recent disruptive blackout, have fueled these appeals.
“If NLC is going for a strike and National Grid/electricity is going with them, they might start losing the support of the masses. NLC should be smart about this, please. You need the support of the people to pressure those in power,” warned @KhadijaGarba19.
Highlighting the potential impact on essential services, @Letter_to_Jack pleaded, “Do what you have to but keep your hands off the National Grid this time. For the sake of those who want to watch Euros and other citizens who need electricity in hospitals. Thanks and God bless.”
However, not all voices echoed this sentiment. Some, like @Emmanuelkalu546 and @AdeyemiGCFR, called for a complete shutdown, including the national grid, to force the government’s hand.
“#62k as salary is an insult to the intelligence of Nigerian workers. The NLC should resume their strike immediately. Shut down the National Grid, Airports, Banks, Train Stations, NNPC, CBN and Co. Let them bring the country to a standstill,” urged @Dambatta_1.
Echoing frustrations, @umohjoe tweeted, “Very insensitive Government! You never settle with the poor Nigerian people, but you increase Chief Justice wages 300%! Please if putting off the National grid will make them listen, GO AHEAD! Aluta continua!!”