The Trade Union Congress has raised concerns, claiming that the Federal Government discontinued the payment of the N35,000 minimum wage after the first month, despite having ample revenue to fulfill the commitment. 

TUC President Festus Osifo voiced this assertion during an interview with Arise Television on Monday, highlighting the government’s failure to follow through on the promised 6-month wage award after the initial payment.

Osifo, in emphasizing the disconnect between available resources and governmental action, stated, “The Nigerian government has the required revenues to meet the demands of the trade union, but lacks the will to actually do what is right.” 

He pointed out that the government has witnessed a substantial increase in the funds allocated from the federation account each month, making it evident that financial constraints are not the primary issue.

The TUC has presented a 10-point agenda to President Bola Tinubu as part of its demands to the federal government. 

Osifo disclosed that the government had not notarized the agreement reached on the 10-point agenda, which was expected to be a consent judgment. 

He expressed concern that, as of the latest information available to them, the agreement had not been presented before the court for adoption as a consent judgment.

The union president further underscored the TUC’s commitment to holding the government accountable, stating, “Our responsibility is to hold them accountable to be sure and certain that every statement in that agreement as agreed with them must be implemented.”

Regarding the economic challenges faced by Nigerians, Osifo highlighted the impact of inflation, the removal of the fuel subsidy, and other pressing issues. 

He explained, “It was based on this that the government came up with this 10-point agenda because we feel that if the government is sincere enough to implement these and put frameworks in place to address all these, the life of an average Nigerian will be better.”

In a final call to action, Osifo urged the government to address the issues affecting Nigerians, stating, “This government must sit down, buckle its belt, and address the issues that are affecting Nigerians.”