The House of Representatives has criticized the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for allegedly spreading misinformation about lawmakers’ earnings.
The House accused the unions of attempting to damage legislators’ reputations and incite public hostility towards them.
In a statement signed by Akin Rotimi, the House’s spokesman, it was emphasized that such actions could escalate public dissatisfaction with politicians and harm the Assembly’s reputation.
The House called for those undermining the country’s economy to be held accountable.
The statement acknowledged the recent industrial action by the NLC and TUC due to stalled negotiations over a new national minimum wage. The House noted that the strike had been suspended for a week to allow for further negotiations.
“The People’s House is pleased to note that the strike action has been suspended for one week to allow for further negotiation,” the statement read. “During this period, as we have previously demonstrated, the People’s House remains responsive and committed to actively engaging all stakeholders to resolve the issues in the best interest of Nigerians.”
House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has consistently advocated for a living wage and better working conditions for workers. He has stressed the importance of addressing key national issues, such as the economy and insecurity, through legislative action.
While supporting the call for improved wages and working conditions, the House urged caution in raising the minimum wage beyond what the economy can sustain, warning of potential inflation, layoffs, and other negative economic consequences. The statement underscored the need for a balanced approach to ensure long-term stability and prosperity.
The House expressed concern about the direction of the strike before its suspension and criticized the shutdown of critical infrastructure, such as the national grid and airports, calling it economic sabotage detrimental to the country’s well-being.
“Those responsible for these actions must be held accountable,” the statement declared. It also criticized the labour leadership, suggesting that many union leaders live far above the means of the average Nigerian and that their actions exacerbated the suffering of ordinary citizens.
The statement questioned whether the unions’ objective was to secure a living wage for workers or to inflict pain on Nigerians. It accused organized Labour of spreading misinformation about lawmakers’ earnings to stoke public resentment and undermine the Legislature’s credibility.
“This tactic diverts attention from the core issues at stake and unfairly vilifies the institution of parliament,” the statement continued. “It is crucial for all parties to engage in an honest and transparent dialogue rather than resorting to the spread of inaccuracies for political leverage.”
The House reaffirmed its commitment to acting in the best interests of Nigerians, emphasizing that the Legislature is on the side of the people and will continue to give meaning to their mandate.
