After the APC’s recent wins in Imo and Kogi states, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), visited the state house to congratulate the Vice President. During the visit, he shifted attention to urgent labor issues, advocating for immediate action regarding the enforcement of the mutually agreed minimum wage.
Speaking candidly about the recent off-cycle elections, particularly emphasizing the significance of the Imo State polls, Oshiomhole underscored the power of ordinary citizens’ votes. He highlighted the disconnect between sponsored commentary and tangible grassroots developments, noting that voters’ decisions were largely influenced by impactful projects such as roads and healthcare facilities.
However, amidst the celebration of electoral successes, Sen. Oshiomhole directed attention to the plight of laborers across various Nigerian states. Expressing deep concern over the failure of some states to implement the N30,000 minimum wage, he called upon the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) to take robust action against non-compliant state governments.
Drawing from his past as a labor leader, Oshiomhole articulated his unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers, stating that the hunger experienced by federal employees is no different from that felt by state and local government employees. He urged the NLC to prioritize engaging state governments, emphasizing that the agreement reached concerning the minimum wage should be universally enforced.
While acknowledging the complexities of labor issues and the necessity for the NLC to remain apolitical, Sen. Oshiomhole cautioned against the intermingling of political motives with genuine labor concerns. He stressed the importance of focusing on the critical needs of workers and ensuring that the agreed-upon minimum wage is implemented across the board.
In a passionate plea, Sen. Oshiomhole urged the NLC to take a firm stance, stating that there should be no rest in any state where the agreed-upon wage is not being honored. He emphasized that while celebrating electoral victories is essential, ensuring the welfare of workers remains paramount.
Sen. Adams Oshiomhole’s strong advocacy for labor rights in the midst of recent electoral achievements signals a parallel focus on governance that directly impacts the lives and livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.