As the world celebrates Workers’ Day today, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State, has demanded the reinstatement of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State Assembly.
This is as the State NLC also called for a sober reflection on the plight of workers in the country.
Speaking on the occasion of Workers’ Day at the NLC secretariat in Port Harcourt, NLC Chairman in the state, Comrade Alex Agwanwor lamented the economic hardship faced by Nigerian workers, citing the impact of government policies.
He also noted that the organised labour fought for democracy in Nigeria and as such would continue to fight till it is entrenched in every aspect of the society.
He said: “As we reflect on the happenings in Rivers State in the past one month, that is the suspension of all democratically elected government and institution in Rivers State, let us continue to remain steadfast, be law abiding and carryout our legitimate duty without fear or intimidation and avoid acts that could lead or trigger provocation.
“The organized labour fought for democracy, we are a product of democracy and we will continue to fight till democracy is well entrenched in our land.
“We appeal to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Asiwaju Tinubu to use his good office, and intention to reinstate the democratically elected Governor, Deputy Governor and the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to their offices as soon as possible.”
He emphasized that as workers of Rivers State, they enjoy good working relationship with the elected representatives under a democratic system of government.
NLC also urged the Sole Administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) to facilitate the peaceful reconciliation process that
he has been saddled with to expedite the quick return of elected representatives.
Speaking on the effect of the current economic situation on workers, Agwanwor noted that while workers were celebrating the approval and implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage, the same government had imposed various taxes on citizens, increased electricity and telecommunication tariffs, and removed fuel subsidies without adequate measures to alleviate the suffering of workers and masses.
The NLC Chairman demanded the immediate payment of pension arrears owed to Rivers State pensioners and the implementation of the N32,000 minimum wage approved for federal pensioners. He also called for the payment of gratuity and death benefits without further delay.
Agwanwor urged the management of polytechnics in the state to implement increments and promotions, particularly CONTENDISS 15 for non-teaching staff.
He expressed concern that these issues had been pending for too long.
The NLC Chairman also called for the regulation, recognition, and protection of app-based transportation drivers. He emphasized the importance of transportation in the state’s economy and the need for policies that protect drivers from fare evasion, theft, and violence.
