Amidst the ongoing deadlock between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Government regarding the proposed minimum wage, Nigerian citizens are using social media to urge the labor union to refrain from disrupting the national power grid during any potential strike action.
On Monday, the NLC rejected the government’s offers of ₦62,000 or ₦100,000 as the new minimum wage, deeming these figures inadequate. Assistant General Secretary Chris Onyeka labeled them a “starvation wage” in an interview with Channels Television.
“Our stance is crystal clear. We will not settle for ₦62,000 or any amount below what can sustain Nigerian workers,” emphasized Onyeka, maintaining the NLC’s demand for a ₦250,000 minimum wage, which he deemed a reasonable concession.
With the one-week ultimatum given to the federal government set to expire by midnight on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Nigerians are voicing concerns on social media about the potential repercussions of a nationwide strike on the power sector.
“Please, spare the national grid. We implore you,” pleaded @TaoFeek182 on Twitter.
Similar sentiments were echoed by @Ishow_leck, urging the NLC to refrain from disrupting the power grid, emphasizing the need for peace and stability.
These calls stem from the recent power outage that left many Nigerians without electricity for extended periods, prompting fears of further disruptions should the national grid be affected by a strike.
“If NLC disrupts the national grid, they risk losing support from the masses. They should tread carefully and consider the people’s support,” cautioned @KhadijaGarba19.
Concerns were also raised about the impact on essential services, with @Letter_to_Jack appealing for the preservation of electricity for critical needs, such as healthcare and entertainment.
In response, @Dambatta_1 called for a comprehensive strike, including shutdowns of various sectors, to pressure the government into meeting workers’ demands.
Joseph Umoh (@umohjoe) criticized the government’s handling of the situation, urging the NLC to take drastic action if necessary, including disrupting the national grid, to compel the government to listen to the people’s grievances.
