Benue NLC, TUC Threaten Strike Over Salary Slash

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Benue State chapter have said that they will embark on an indefinite strike action if the state government does not reverse the workers salary slash.

In a communique signed by NLC chairman, Comrade Simon Anchaver and his TUC counterpart, Ordue Tartenger, after the joint meeting of the organised labour yesterday in Makurdi, the two unions resolved that government should also address other issues affecting members before the close of work yesterday, failing which they would embark on an indefinite strike action commencing today.

They expressed worry over the decision of government to unilaterally deduct salaries of workers despite the position of the organised labour that it would resist any attempt to tamper with salaries.

The joint session observed with dismay the non-payment of minimum wage to pensioners and the non-implementation of 15 per cent and two and a half per cent increment to pensioners. Government should pay forthwith.

We also observed that primary school teachers are yet to enjoy the full implementation of the minimum wage; they should also be paid along with other workers, the organised labour insisted.

The unions called on the state government to refund excess tax deductions from members since 2011 and all deductions made in respect of the National Housing Fund, adding, The three years Leave/Transport Grant arrears owed our members by the state government must also be paid forthwith.