A prominent group known as Concerned Nigerian Patriots (CNP) has expressed deep concern over the demand for a ₦250,000 minimum wage by the organized labor, stating that such a proposal could push the country into an economic recession.
In a press conference held in Abuja, CNP Chairman Alfa Mohammed addressed the issue, alleging that the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Labor Party are colluding to create chaos for the administration led by Bola Tinubu.
It has been reported that both the federal government and the organized private sector have proposed a N62,000 minimum wage, which has already been submitted to President Bola Tinubu for consideration.
However, the CNP argues that the insistence on a significantly higher wage is a deliberate attempt to undermine the current administration and jeopardize the country’s economic recovery efforts.
The group highlights the adverse consequences of such demands, particularly in light of the temporary economic hardships caused by ongoing necessary reforms.
They point out that the coalition’s consistent resort to strikes and disruptions in critical national infrastructure has already had severe ramifications for the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians.
The CNP further asserts that the coalition, which previously supported Mr. Peter Obi in the presidential election, now poses a significant threat to democracy and economic stability.
They raise concerns about the group’s apparent desperation to disrupt the current administration following their candidate’s loss, labeling them the “Obidients.” The CNP accuses this coalition of repeatedly mobilizing protests with the aim of making the country ungovernable.
According to the CNP, the coalition’s agenda seems to be deliberately provoking public unrest and destabilizing the government. They argue that advocating for an unrealistic wage increase that is not financially viable risks inciting chaos and anarchy, ultimately undermining the hard-earned democratic progress of Nigeria.
The CNP urges all stakeholders to prioritize the country’s economic recovery and work towards sustainable solutions that benefit both workers and the overall stability of the nation.