Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North District, has voiced criticism against the ongoing nationwide strike led by Labour Unions, stating that the strike’s focus is misplaced and not in the best interest of Nigerian workers. Speaking after closed-door talks with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, Oshiomhole argued that the Organised Labour should prioritize monitoring the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Federal Government on October 2, 2023.
The Senator, a former Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, expressed support for actions addressing the genuine concerns of workers but emphasized the need to avoid mixing political opinions with responsibilities. He highlighted the Federal Government’s agreement, including a N35,000 Wage Award for federal workers and provisions for Compressed Natural Gas-enabled vehicles, as steps towards addressing workers’ needs.
Oshiomhole urged Labour to engage state governors and governments to ensure the agreement’s implementation across all levels. While denouncing violence, he emphasized the importance of mobilizing members in all 36 states to hold governments accountable for promises aimed at improving living conditions. The Senator’s remarks come amid the Labour Centres’ decision to strike, protesting the assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero and pending labour issues in Imo State.
In a separate context, Oshiomhole, accompanied by former APC National Working Committee members, Ahmed Wambai and Adamu Fanda, visited the State House to congratulate Vice President Bola Tinubu on the APC’s success in the Imo and Kogi elections on November 11. He highlighted the significance of off-cycle elections in reflecting the power of the people over vocal elements in the country’s capital and emphasized the impact of governors’ actions on voters’ judgments.
