The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) accused President Bola Tinubu of betraying organized labour by using the price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) as a negotiation tool during talks on the new N70,000 minimum wage.

NLC President Joe Ajaero revealed that during discussions leading to the acceptance of the N70,000 minimum wage, President Tinubu presented two options: either the labour movement agrees to a N70,000 wage with no increase in fuel prices, or accepts a higher N250,000 wage accompanied by a significant fuel price hike.

Ajaero made these remarks at a two-day “Minimum Wage Implementation Workshop” held in Lagos. He emphasized that while the labour movement opted for the N70,000 wage to shield Nigerians from further fuel price hikes, the subsequent rise in petrol prices has eroded the benefits of the new wage.

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Ajaero criticized the government for shifting focus away from critical issues like hunger, poverty, and frustration, claiming there were attempts to divert attention by accusing the labour movement of involvement in cybercrime and terrorism financing.

Tinubu’s Negotiation Tactics

Ajaero recounted Tinubu’s ultimatum during the negotiations, stating that the president pressured them to choose between the N250,000 wage and an increase in the pump price of fuel. Labour, however, stood firm, rejecting the fuel price hike, knowing its devastating effect on the masses.

“We said no, Mr President; we can’t allow you to increase to any length because that will affect all Nigerians, and we would be seen as selfish,” Ajaero said. He added that even a wage of N250,000 would be insufficient due to the rising cost of petrol.

International Fuel Comparisons and Border Smuggling

President Tinubu also suggested funding a tour for the labour leaders to West African countries, where fuel prices reportedly range from N1,700 to N2,000 per litre. Labour, however, rejected the offer, insisting that the government should address the issue of smuggling fuel out of Nigeria rather than comparing local prices with those of neighboring countries.

Ajaero reiterated that the decision to accept the N70,000 wage was reached after extensive consultations, despite concerns that some private sector employers are unwilling to comply with the new minimum wage.

Private Sector Pushback

Ajaero noted that the private sector, alongside the state and federal governments, resisted the N70,000 wage during the negotiations. This opposition led to walkouts by labour representatives during the talks.