In a scathing critique, former Nigerian Presidential aspirant Enyinnaya Nwosu has unleashed a barrage of criticism aimed at the nation’s labour leaders, branding them as “the funniest and most unserious group of people” he has encountered. Nwosu’s remarks, shared exclusively with Newsie Events, underscore a growing sentiment of disillusionment with the current state of labour advocacy in Nigeria.
Nwosu’s condemnation centers on the recent demand by labour leaders for a minimum wage of 1 million naira, a move he dismisses as “jokes” from a group he perceives as lacking seriousness. “Their demand for 1m as minimum wage makes any reasonable person know they are jokes,” Nwosu asserted, highlighting what he sees as a disconnect between the demands of labour leaders and the practical realities facing workers.
While acknowledging the importance of fair wages, Nwosu argues that labour leaders must broaden their focus beyond mere salary increments. “Labour leaders don’t only demand minimum wage,” he stated, “they should demand for policies that can help workers and society have a good life.” He emphasized the need for a holistic approach to labour advocacy, one that encompasses broader socio-economic reforms aimed at improving the overall quality of life for workers.
In a stark warning against short-sighted solutions, Nwosu likened salary increases during inflationary periods to “adding fuel to a burning house.” Instead, he urged labour leaders to push for structural reforms, including legislative measures to facilitate affordable housing and support local production. “Rather than wage increase,” Nwosu declared, “they should demand for government to make a law that will enable citizens pay house rent monthly.”
Drawing attention to the plight of workers facing salary delays, Nwosu proposed legislative reforms aimed at holding elected officials accountable. “They should demand that a law makes it an impeachment offense if a governor does not pay salaries for over 2 months,” he insisted, calling for mechanisms to ensure timely salary disbursements and protect workers’ rights.
In a damning indictment of the current state of labour leadership, Nwosu expressed concern that some labour leaders may be more focused on personal gain than advocating for the interests of workers. “Right now, it appears that they are fighting for their private pockets,” he lamented, suggesting that labour leaders may be swayed by government incentives rather than genuine advocacy for workers’ rights.
Nwosu’s impassioned critique serves as a wake-up call to Nigerian labour leaders, urging them to reassess their priorities and adopt a more proactive approach to advocacy. As the debate over workers’ rights and socio-economic reforms continues to intensify, Nwosu’s words resonate as a clarion call for meaningful change within the labour movement.
Enyinnaya Nwosu (ENN) was a Presidential Aspirant in the 2019 Presidential elections in Nigeria.