Oshiomhole faults NLC's industrial action

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North District, expressed his views on the ongoing nationwide strike by Labor Unions, asserting that their priorities are not aligned with the interests of Nigerian workers. In a statement on Tuesday, Oshiomhole argued that the rationale behind the strike is misplaced and suggested that Organized Labor should focus on mobilizing states to monitor the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Federal Government on October 2, 2023.

Speaking to State House Correspondents after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, Oshiomhole emphasized the need to avoid mixing political opinions with responsibilities. He stressed that the issues confronting workers are numerous and should be given top priority, cautioning against diverting attention from crucial matters affecting employees.

Oshiomhole highlighted that the Federal Government had already agreed on several demands by Organized Labor, including the payment of N35,000 as Wage Awards to federal workers for the next six months. This agreement also encompassed the provision of Compressed Natural Gas-enabled vehicles and conversion kits to facilitate commuting nationwide.

The former Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (1999–2007) acknowledged the importance of addressing labor issues but argued that the current strike is not addressing the agreed-upon solutions. He urged Organized Labor to engage with state governments to ensure the fulfillment of promises made by the Federal Government, emphasizing that the welfare of all workers, regardless of their employment level, should be considered.

While condemning violence against any individual, Oshiomhole urged Labor to mobilize its members across all 36 states to hold state governments accountable for implementing agreements that were brokered through national strikes. He reiterated his support for action against any government neglecting the agreed-upon resolutions and advised against aligning with specific political candidates or parties.

Accompanied by two former members of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress, Ahmed Wambai and Adamu Fanda, Oshiomhole visited the State House to congratulate President Bola Tinubu on the APC’s success in the Imo and Kogi elections on November 11. He praised the electoral victories as a testament to the power of the people and cautioned against relying on urban elites’ opinions, emphasizing the importance of considering the views of the majority who exercise their voting power.