The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has criticized state governments for failing to implement the minimum wage for local government workers. The union accused the governors of sidelining workers at the grassroots level, leaving them to languish in poor working conditions despite federal directives on the new wage structure. NULGE described the situation as an injustice and a deliberate attempt to weaken local government systems.
Speaking at a press conference, NULGE President Ambali Olatunji called out state governments for breaching the law. He emphasized that the failure to implement the minimum wage not only contravenes labor laws but also undermines workers’ rights. Olatunji noted that while state civil servants in many states now enjoy the minimum wage, local government employees are excluded without justification.
The union warned that the continued marginalization of local government workers could lead to nationwide industrial action. Ambali urged the federal government to intervene and ensure compliance, as the neglect of these workers threatens grassroots development. He argued that local government employees are pivotal to delivering essential services to rural communities and should not be treated as second-class citizens.
NULGE also criticized the political interference in local government administration, which it claimed is a major factor in the poor treatment of workers. The union called for full autonomy of local governments to prevent governors from diverting funds meant for the grassroots. Such autonomy, NULGE argued, would ensure transparency and accountability, ultimately benefiting the workers and their communities.
The union reiterated its commitment to championing the rights of local government workers. It called on the federal and state governments to address the issues promptly to avert further labor unrest. According to NULGE, improving the welfare of local government employees is essential for sustaining democracy and fostering national development.
