The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) today staged a peaceful picket at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike’s office, demanding the immediate implementation of a N70,000 minimum wage for council workers across the FCT’s six area councils.
Led by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, hundreds of union members converged on the minister’s office in a spirited protest aimed at drawing attention to what they described as “unjust and inhumane remuneration” for local government employees. The demonstrators carried placards bearing messages such as “Dignity in Labour, N70,000 Now!” and “Council Workers Deserve Better!”
According to the NLC, despite the rising cost of living and economic hardships, many council workers in the FCT continue to earn below-subsistence wages. The union insists that N70,000 is the bare minimum necessary to sustain workers and their families in the current economic climate.
“We are not asking for luxury; we are demanding survival,” said Comrade Ajaero. “FCT workers are no less Nigerian than others. They deserve fair wages, and the councils have no excuse for this continued economic injustice.”
The protest follows several failed attempts to negotiate with the FCT Administration and Area Council chairmen. The NLC has vowed to escalate its actions if the minister and relevant stakeholders do not act swiftly.