The organised labour unions in Cross River State have declared their intention to begin an indefinite strike, citing the state government’s failure to implement the N70,000 minimum wage. According to Gregory Ulayi, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, workers will halt all activities from midnight on Sunday unless the government fulfills its obligations.

Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Monday Ogbodum, echoed this stance, emphasizing that the unions are resolute in their demand for the new wage regime. Ogbodum noted that while negotiations are ongoing, the planned industrial action will proceed if the state government fails to act decisively.

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“Yes, we are still in talks with the government. We had a meeting on Thursday and another on Friday that ended late in the evening. There is going to be another meeting today, but that does not mean everything is resolved, though the government has shown some level of seriousness,” Ogbodum explained.

Despite the state’s attempts to engage with union leaders, the labour unions remain skeptical. Ogbodum highlighted that signing an agreement without clear implementation would not be sufficient to prevent the strike.

This development follows similar labour movements across Nigeria, including threats from unions in other states and the Federal Capital Territory, all demanding prompt implementation of the minimum wage. As the December 1 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Cross River State government to see if it will avert the looming shutdown.