Minimum wage: Don’t shut down national grid, Nigerians urge NLC

Nigerians have gone to social media to beg the Nigeria Labour Congress not to interfere with the country's electrical system during any prospective strike action, as the labour union and the federal government continue to argue over the proposed minimum wage.

Assistant General Secretary Chris Onyeka called the government's proposed minimum salary of either ₦62,000 or ₦100,000 a "starvation wage," and the NLC rejected it on Monday.

"We have a very clear position. We have never given thought to taking less than ₦62,000, or any other wage that we are aware is insufficient to send Nigerian workers home. Onyeka declared, "We will not negotiate a starvation wage," during a Monday interview on Channels Television.

In what Onyeka described as a "enough concession to the government and the other social partners in this particular situation," the NLC has not altered its demand for a minimum salary of ₦250,000.

Nigerians are worried about the possible effects of a statewide strike on the electricity industry, and they have gone to social media as the federal government's one-week grace period is set to expire at midnight on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.

Alright, good. Keep your hands off the national grid. I beg you, please," tweeted @TaoFeek182.

A different user, @Ishow_leck, reiterated this idea by saying, "This time, please stay away from the power grid and do whatever you want to do." Let's all unwind comfortably at home.
The huge disruption brought on by the power outage that occurred last week, which left many Nigerians without energy for prolonged periods of time, is the reason behind the calls for protecting the national grid.

"NLC may begin to lose public support if they decide to go on strike and National Grid or power goes with them. Please, NLC, be wise about this. To be able to put pressure on individuals in positions of authority, you need the backing of the people, @KhadijaGarba19 advised.

The possible impact on vital services has also been brought up by Nigerians, with @Letter_to_Jack pleading with people to "do what you have to but keep your hands off the National Grid this time." In the sake of those among us who enjoy watching the Euros and other patriotic citizens who have compassion for those in hospitals who need light in the ICU. Thanks and God bless.”
Meanwhile, @Emmanuelkalu546 said, “Shut down the national grid.”

While @AdeyemiGCFR wrote, “Awesome. Let’s shut down everywhere, firstly, the National Grid!”

Consequently, @Dambatta_1 said, “#62k as salary is an insult to the intelligence of the Nigerian workers. The NLC should resume their relaxed strike immediately. Shut down the National Grid, Airports, Banks, Train Stations, NNPC, CBN and Co. Let them bring the country to a standstill.”

Furthermore, Joseph Umoh, @umohjoe, wrote, ” Very insensitive Government! You never settle with the poor Nigerian people you go increase Chief Justice wages 300%! Please if putting off the National grid will make them listen GO AHEAD! Aluta continua!!”