The labour centres said the ultimatum follows the prolonged delay in enforcing the recommendations of the Technical Committee on the review of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), a report submitted since 2021.

This position was outlined in a joint statement issued in Abuja on Saturday and signed by TUC Secretary-General, Nuhu Toro, and NLC Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah.

According to the unions, the committee—headed by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission—was established to correct pay imbalances affecting health workers. However, more than five years after the process began, its findings remain unimplemented.

The labour leaders insisted that health professionals have shown considerable patience and warned that further delay would no longer be acceptable. They described the failure to act as an injustice to health workers and an indication of disregard for organised labour.

The unions also noted that adjustments to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) were approved and implemented promptly, describing the differing treatment as evidence of unfairness and lack of sincerity on the part of the government.

They further disclosed that repeated appeals and engagements with the Ministry of Health have yielded no concrete response, prompting the issuance of the ultimatum.

TUC and NLC cautioned that if the demands are not met within the stipulated timeframe, they will initiate nationwide industrial action. Possible measures, they said, include protests, picketing of health facilities, and suspension of services across the country.

Emphasising the critical role health workers play in sustaining the nation, the unions declared that excuses and unfulfilled assurances would no longer be tolerated. They also placed all affiliates, including state councils and the Federal Capital Territory, on alert for mobilisation.

The unions urged the government to prevent an avoidable labour crisis by fully implementing the CONHESS report within the 14-day deadline.

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No democratic societarily remote the whims of the President. Thiess move should deeply concern every reasonable governor and citizen who believes in the rule of law.

We, therefore, call on Mr. President to revoke this unconstitutional declaration in compliance with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which clearly outlines the legal process for declaring and sustaining a state of emergency.

The President, as the custodian of the nation’s executive powers, must exercise restraint, respect constitutional limits, and act in a manner that inspires national confidence rather than suspicion.

Any decision that jeopardizes national security, economic stability, and democratic governance must be reconsidered.

Nigeria has suffered the painful consequences of political overreach in the past, and we cannot afford to repeat such mistakes.

Beyond the political and legal implications, this unjustified state of emergency will have severe socio-economic repercussions on workers and the masses. It will:

Disrupt economic activities, forcing businesses to shut down or scale back operations;

Lead to job losses, wage cuts, and economic hardship for thousands of workers in both the formal and informal sectors;

Create an atmosphere of uncertainty, discouraging investment and slowing economic growth in Rivers State and beyond;

Expose citizens to security risks, as history has shown that politically motivated states of emergency often escalate rather than resolve crises.

Accordingly,  the  Labour movement will not remain silent while the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians are threatened by political machinations

Given his storied background in political struggle, we urge Mr. President not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism.

Leadership demands wisdom, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to democratic principles.

We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers. Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.

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BY NKECHI NAECHE- ESEZOBOR–The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has condemned the deployment of military and security operatives to forcefully evacuate Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, (NUPENG), members from their work site on the Oritsetimeyin oil rig.

The NLC disclosed this in a statement that it stands in unequivocal solidarity with the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

It noted that this disturbing action, reportedly orchestrated by certain corporate interests, is a direct affront to the principles of democracy and industrial relations, which demand respect for workers’ rights and the sanctity of negotiated agreements.

The statement further reads that ” The use of the army in Oritseyemi oil rig is an abuse of the instruments of state security as it runs counter to the dictates of unfettered workplaces free from all forms of coercion. It should be noted that we cannot accept the militarization of our workplaces. It is counter-productive and very capable of contaminating the nation’s workplaces which may lead to further crippling and undermining an already troubled Economy.

According to NUPENG, workers were subjected to unlawful eviction due to their rightful demand for the implementation of agreements reached and signed with their employers. This agreement, which included severance benefits for workers, was established through multiple mediatory meetings convened by the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) in the presence of the Department of State Services (DSS). It is therefore alarming that Dutchford E&P, Selective Marine Services, and their labor contractors have chosen to ignore these legally binding agreements and instead opt for intimidation and coercion through the use of armed forces.

“The NLC calls on the Nigerian Military, the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Director-General of the DSS, and the Federal Government to urgently intervene to prevent further harassment and displacement of NUPENG members. This matter is strictly an industrial relations issue and does not warrant the involvement of military personnel, who should focus on protecting the nation rather than being employed as enforcers for corporate agendas. The realization of the sensitive nature of the world of work made it imperative for our nation to create special processes for handling workplace related matters which are encoded in our various statutes. The tenets of these Industrial relations extant statutes must be allowed full expression by all parties to avoid creating a situation of anomie that will further harm our nation’s economy.

“We reiterate our unwavering support for NUPENG and will not hesitate to escalate our response should these unacceptable actions continue. The protection of workers’ rights and their safety remains our utmost priority, and we call on the nation’s gatekeepers to immediately speak up before the situation degenerates.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress acknowledges the dedication and sacrifices of the Nigerian Military and security agencies in safeguarding our nation. However, we remind them that their mandate is the defense of our country’s sovereignty and people, not the suppression of workers’ legitimate demands.”

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The state Chairman of NLC, Mrs Funmi Sessi, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.

NAN reports that the state government  recently announced plans to ban single-use plastics and sachet water by January 2025.

The government had said the policy was aimed to establish sustainable guidelines for managing plastic waste while protecting public health and the environment.

Sessi said: “There are implications for this government decision, that is why government should carry along  stakeholders.

“Number one implication it is going to have on the people is that, by the time government lays a ban on this,  many job losses will happen.

“That is why I am appealing to government to have a rethink because at this particular time, those who are working in all these companies producing single-use bags, nylons, sachet water, you want to throw them into the unemployment market again.

“I use this medium to appeal to our ever-listening government to suspend that action because there have been much of hunger and anger in the land.”

Sessi also expressed dissatisfaction at  further increase in the price of petrol, saying that it caused more hardship on the citizens.

“Our refineries should work,“ she said.

The post NLC Charges Lagos To Suspend Ban On Single-use Plastics appeared first on Business Today NG.

The NLC disclosed this in a statement signed by its Head of Information, Benson Upah, the NLC said “In the days preceding his arrest, Congress President had had  a discussion with the DG DSS  on a courtesy visit.  A Director  in the agency later  called the General Secretary  of the Congress  on the need to fix a date for the courtesy visit.

“The General Secretary however  explained to him that  he  would not be available until Friday (September 13). The said Director assured him they would give Congress leadership  a notice of not less than 48 hours for the visit.

“The statement further reads: “The DG DSS last spoke with  Comrade  Ajaero  on Saturday night during which Ajaero told him he would be  travelling the next day, Sunday, adding that the courtesy visit would be paid after his return  on Friday, September 13.

“The Congress President however missed his flight on Sunday and had it rescheduled to Monday, September 9th.

“It was on that Monday morning he was picked up by the operatives of the DSS in a watch list operation on behalf of  a sister agency.

“We want to re-affirm that Joe Ajaero is a law-abiding citizen heading the biggest pan-Nigerian organisation with an illustrious history of patriotism and will certainly not snub the DSS. He is a  trade unionist of international repute who serves on the executive  boards of world federations of trade unions. His constituency goes beyond Nigeria.

“It is not in his character to disregard invitations and precedents (his honouring the police invitation) attest to this.’

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured workers in the State that his administration will implement the new minimum wage that is approved by the Federal Government.

He made the commitment in response to the demands of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) during the Workers’ Day celebration held on Wednesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.
The Governor, while speaking on the current fuel scarcity, advised Lagos residents against panic buying and storage of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol, saying the Federal Government and the major stakeholders in the oil sector are working round the clock to end the fuel scarcity.

He said he has received assurances from the authorities that there is enough fuel at tank stations, and the distribution of the product will be intensified to ease the current fuel scarcity across the country.

The Governor promised to look at some of the demands of various unions in the State, saying that his administration will continue to ensure good welfare packages for all the workers in the State. 

He praised all the committed, dedicated, resilient, and passionate workers in Lagos State for their contributions across all sectors in building and shaping the State, even in the face of challenges.

He said: “This year’s theme, ‘People First,’ resonates deeply with our administration’s philosophy, which is underpinned by our firm belief in prioritizing the welfare of our people.

“Through various measures, policies, and initiatives, we have demonstrated that the interest and welfare of the people come first and remain the ultimate goal of all our actions. Our response actions are geared towards mitigating the impact of these trying times and offering support to both our workers and citizens alike. 

“We have been steadfast and intentional in implementing our social intervention programmes, providing crucial assistance to those in need throughout the state. From subsidised food items through our Ounje Eko, and Eko Cares initiatives to incentives on social services, we have made tangible differences in countless lives. 

“Healthcare initiatives that ensure access to quality medical services for all, transportation support, and educational opportunities for our children exemplify our commitment to creating a Lagos where everyone has a fair chance to thrive. Our dedication to putting people first extends beyond mere words.”

Speaking on his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “As we look towards the future, I want to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society in which the interests of workers receive the attention it deserves.

“We will continue to invest in education, training, and skills development to equip our workforce with the tools they need to succeed in their places of work because we recognize the vital role that workers play in driving progress and prosperity in our society. And we pledge to build a future where every worker is respected, empowered and able to live with dignity and pride.”

In their respective speeches, the Chairperson of NLC, Lagos State Council, Comrade Agnes Funmi Sessi and her TUC counterpart, Comrade Gbenga Ekundayo, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for making workers’ welfare a priority of his administration. 

They urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to implement the agreed minimum wage, expected to be announced by the Federal Government. 

Sessi said: “Let me use this unique occasion of May Day to commend and appreciate our Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for all his interventions to cushion the effect of the economic problems and ameliorate the suffering of the workers in the State.

“We all witnessed his policy on the last reduction in BRT transportation, the setting up of a discounted food mart, the three-day working policy, the payment of a 20 percent increment in salary, the full implementation of N35,000 Wage Award as approved by the Federal Government, and prompt payment of salary.”

Comrade Ekundayo commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his prompt action in implementing the Wage Award for all public servants in Lagos State, noting that the swift response has provided much-needed relief to mitigate the adverse combined effects of the recent subsidy removal and devaluation of the Naira.

“Lagos has been at the forefront of implementing welfare programmes that positively impact workers, and your (Governor Sanwo-Olu) dedication to this course is deeply appreciated. Your commitment to prioritising the welfare of your people is perfectly aligned with our core belief of placing citizens first,” he said.

Speaking earlier, Lagos State Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, commended the leadership of the Organised Labour for their maturity, understanding, and steadfast support for the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration.

He said: “The theme of this year’s May Day, which is “People First,” resonates profoundly with the resolve of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration in placing the welfare and empowerment of every worker within Lagos State beyond other considerations. 

“Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Government has implemented a plethora of social intervention programmes that are targeted at enhancing the well-being of the populace.

Also speaking, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, said the theme of the 2024 May Day celebration, which is “People First,” reflects the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to prioritising the well-being, welfare, and prosperity of workers and citizens at large in Lagos State.

During the May Day celebration attended by thousands of workers from the public and private sectors, over 50 unions from different sectors took part in the march past.

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