Workers in Ondo State have called for an immediate upward review of the current N73,000 minimum wage to N256,950.
In a letter addressed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa through the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliate unions, the workers emphasized that the demand is necessary in light of the prevailing economic realities.
They argued that the existing wage is no longer sustainable, citing the removal of fuel subsidy, rising inflation, and the soaring costs of food, transportation, housing, and healthcare as key reasons for the urgent review.
In the letter signed by the NLC chairman in the state, Comrade Ademola Olapade, and the state secretary, Comrade Akin Sunday, the workers urged the governor to urgently constitute a negotiation committee.
Emphasising that the state has the capacity to meet the demand, the workers noted that despite Imo State not being an oil-producing state, it has commenced payment of a N104,000 minimum wage for its workers and pensioners.
The letter, which also demanded upwards review of pension for retirees in the state, said “It is only just and reasonable that Ondo State, which is blessed with oil wealth and resource potential, does not lack behind but instead leads in setting progressive standards for others to emulate.
“Your Excellency, Ondo State is not just any state, it is a critical contributor to Nigeria’s oil revenue. As such, it is unacceptable that its workers and pensioners continue to live under wages that do not reflect the state’s strategic and financial status.
“Workers are the engine of governance and economic productivity and pensioners are citizens who had served with loyalty during their better years and deserve to live the remainder of their lives with dignity.
“In light of the above, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Ondo State Council and its affiliate Unions are formally demanding the immediate upward review of the minimum wage for Ondo State workers to the sum of #256,950. This figure will form a realistic reflection of the current economic indices and the prevailing cost of survival for an average.
“Governance must not only be about policies and projects but also about people’s welfare and ability to live dignified lives. A government that pays its workers and pensioners a just wage is a government that honours the social contract it holds with its people.”
