The face-off between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo over minimum wage has taken a new dimension.

Few days ago, the national President of NLC, comrade Joe Ajaero, wrote a letter,accusing Soludo of inciting other Governors not to pay N70,000 as minimum wage.

Ajaero issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Anambra Governor to address the issues of workers in the state or face industrial action.

He further alleged that Soludo is implementing anti-worker policies, accusing him further of failure to pay the 2019 National Minimum Wage of N30,000, unresolved contributory pension deductions and the cessation of a N12,000 special palliative allowance.

But the State Government debunked the allegations, while highlighting the commendable strides Soludo has made in improving the welfare and working conditions of Anambra workers since he assumed office in March, 2022.

Soludo summoned the Labour leaders to a meeting next Wednesday to discuss the way forward and avoid the looming danger.

Speaking with The Nation at the weekend, some of the Labour leaders who did not want to be mentioned, said Soludo should not start what he can’t finish.

They said: “We’re going to hear from the Governor and what he has to say. Our national President has given us the mandate already ”

“What he will tell us will either make us to shift ground or proceed with the strike. If he fails to tell us what suits the ear, it will be disastrous for the state.”

Reacting on the allegations, Soludo’s Press Secretary, Chris Aburime, at the weekend, said at no time did Soludo incite or influence other Governors against paying the proposed N70, 000 minimum wage.

“Instead, he has always been sensitive to the welfare of workers. Even as the former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, he was quite responsive to staff wellbeing.

“Efforts are already underway to resolve the issue of contributory pension deductions while the agreed 2019 National Minimum Wage of N30, 000 is already being paid.

“The state government is open to meaningful dialogue and collaboration with the NLC to address any concerns amicably.

“We assure the NLC and all Anambra State workers that their demands and issues are being diligently addressed,” Soludo said. (The Nation)

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