Kebbi NLC Fires Back At Malami Over Claims Of Workers’ Hardship

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kebbi State Council, has rejected claims by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Abubakar Malami, that workers in the state are suffering due to unpaid pensions, delayed promotions and salary deductions.

According to Bush Radio Academy, NLC Chairman in Kebbi, Murtala Usman, made the clarification while addressing journalists in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, stressing that the labour union had maintained regular engagement with Governor Nasir Idris’ administration since it assumed office in 2023.

Usman said the discussions between the NLC and the state government had been conducted through collective bargaining, social dialogue, consultations and negotiations aimed at resolving issues affecting workers.

He explained that although some demands raised by the union had been addressed, others were still being discussed with the government.

The NLC chairman also pointed to the state government’s implementation of a ₦75,000 minimum wage, noting that the figure was higher than the ₦70,000 national minimum wage benchmark approved at the federal level.

Usman described the implementation as an important step towards improving workers’ welfare but stressed that the union would continue to push for better purchasing power and improved working conditions amid inflation and the rising cost of living.

He said trade unionism should be based on evidence, negotiation and institutional engagement rather than unverified claims.

“Trade unionism is not conducted through rumour. It is conducted through evidence, negotiation, collective action where necessary, and institutional engagement,” Usman said.

The labour leader also addressed Malami’s promise to raise the minimum wage in Kebbi to ₦110,000 if elected governor in 2027.

While acknowledging the proposed figure, Usman urged workers and the public to examine the financial implications, sustainability and implementation plans behind such campaign promises.

He argued that announcing a higher wage during an election campaign was easier than securing the resources and political commitment required to implement and sustain it once in government.

“Announcing a higher figure during an election campaign is easy. But the real test is the capacity and willingness to negotiate, fund, implement and sustain such commitments when in government,” he said.

Usman maintained that Kebbi workers deserved policies capable of being implemented rather than attractive figures that could remain campaign promises.

He added that the NLC would continue to demand greater improvements in workers’ welfare while recognising measures already taken by the state government.