NLC Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum to Niger Government Over Salary Deductions

Comrade Idris Lafene, state chairman of the NLC, issued the ultimatum during the 2024 International Workers' Day celebration in Minna. The event was held at the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Centre, instead of the usual 123 Quarters parade ground.

The Niger State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the state government a 24-hour ultimatum to refund deductions made from civil servants' salaries for the Contributory Health Care Scheme. Failure to comply will result in industrial action that will bring the state to a standstill.

Comrade Idris Lafene, state chairman of the NLC, issued the ultimatum during the 2024 International Workers' Day celebration in Minna. The event was held at the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Centre, instead of the usual 123 Quarters parade ground.

The Contributory Health Care Scheme was introduced by the previous governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, which deducted 2% of civil servants' salaries. Lafene stated that the union had not agreed to the deductions and demanded a refund, threatening to halt the program if their demands are not met.

In response, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, represented by the Head of Service, Abubakar Salihu, promised that the state government would take appropriate action on the issue. Salihu also donated N5 million to the 25 local governments in Niger State to alleviate transportation difficulties caused by fuel scarcity. The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, assured workers of the government's commitment to improving their welfare and donated N2.5 million to support their transportation.

Ibrahim Gana, chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Niger State, emphasized that society progresses when governments prioritize citizens' wellbeing in policy and decision-making. The NLC's ultimatum highlights the need for the state government to address workers' concerns and ensure their welfare.

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