N70,000 allowance saga: Ex-Labour leaders intervene as NLC, TUC presidents ‘fight’ on TV
Former Labour Leaders Intervene in NLC-TUC Dispute Over Transport Allowance
Former leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are addressing an ongoing conflict between NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo regarding the Federal Government’s transport allowance for public sector workers.
The dispute, which has escalated into personal attacks aired on national television, is straining relations within the labor movement. Ayuba Wabba, a former NLC president, confirmed the intervention on Wednesday in Abuja, stating that respected labor figures have engaged in discussions with both leaders. They reached an agreement to halt public criticisms until a comprehensive reconciliation can occur.
Wabba characterized the situation as an internal disagreement that should be resolved through dialogue. “It is a family misunderstanding between the two centres,” he said. “Workers’ organizations are supposed to be united in their objectives.”
According to Wabba, the conflict has grown more severe, and elder trade unionists advised Ajaero and Osifo that all hostilities must cease. He expressed the intention to meet with the leaders to understand the underlying issues and to prevent future conflicts.
The effort to promote peace involves several seasoned union representatives, including former TUC leaders Peter Esele and Bobboi Kaigama, as well as past NLC presidents Hassan Sunmonu and Abdulwaheed Omar.
The quarrel initially stemmed from Ajaero’s decision to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government concerning a N70,000 transport allowance, a move made without TUC consultation, which Osifo subsequently rejected. Ajaero contended that the NLC is entitled to negotiate independently based on the International Labour Organization’s principles, whereas Osifo argued that Ajaero lacks the authority to negotiate on behalf of TUC members and emphasized the need for a salary increase rather than a temporary allowance.
Ajaero has stated that the newly secured transport allowance will be incorporated into overall benefits during upcoming discussions regarding a new national minimum wage.
Wabba indicated that a formal reconciliation meeting will be scheduled once all parties are available.
