The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has strongly criticized the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) for its perceived failure to protect the interests of Nigerian workers. In a statement issued by Comrade Andrew Emelieze, National Coordinator of the FWF, the group expressed its disappointment with the NLC’s handling of workers’ issues.
The FWF accused the NLC of being dysfunctional and hypocritical, citing its failure to mobilize workers against the recent petrol price increment and its acceptance of the N70,000 minimum wage, which the group considers “starvation wages.” The FWF also condemned the federal government’s decision to tax workers N33,000 while adding only N40,000 to their salaries.
The group further alleged that the NLC/TUC has abandoned its responsibilities, allowing workers to be exploited and mistreated by employers. The FWF passed a vote of no confidence on the NLC/TUC and warned President Bola Tinubu that it may be forced to pass a vote of no confidence on him if he fails to address the issues facing federal workers.
The FWF’s statement was copied to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Federal Ministry of Labour, the Head of Service of the Federation, civil society organizations, and labour movements worldwide. The group demanded that the federal government pay outstanding arrears and salaries, as well as implement a family support allowance or cost of living allowance to cushion the effects of hardship on workers.
