The House of Representatives on Tuesday cautioned organized Labour against misinforming the public on the earnings of members of the National Assembly.
According to the Reps, such acts could stoke public resentment against lawmakers and undermine the credibility of the legislature.
The House also picked holes in the handling of the suspended industrial action by union leaders. They described the shutting down of the national grid as an act of economic sabotage.
This was contained in a statement by Reps spokesman, Akin Rotimi.
According to Rotimi, “the House frown at the actions of the labour union for throwing the country in to darkness.” He said those responsible for sabotaging the nation’s economy should be brought to justice.
While stating that the Representatives support the clamour for a living wage for workers, they warned against raising salaries beyond what the economy can accommodate. This, they said, is to guard against untoward consequences.
The statement reads: “The House of Representatives acknowledges the recent industrial action undertaken by the NLC and the TUC. Which is due to the breakdown in negotiations for a new national minimum wage.
“The People’s House is pleased to note that the strike action has been suspended for one week to allow for further negotiation.
“During this period, as we have previously demonstrated, the People’s House remains responsive. And is committed to actively engaging all stakeholders to resolve the issues in the best interest of Nigerians.
“House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has consistently advocated a living wage and better working conditions for workers.
“At various fora, he has emphasized the importance of addressing key national priorities. And these include the state of the economy and insecurity, through legislative action.
“While the Green Chamber is in full support of the call for improved wages and working conditions, there is a great need to exercise caution in increasing the minimum wage beyond what our economy can sustain. This is to avoid unintended outcomes such as inflation, layoffs, and other adverse economic consequences.
“Thus, we restate the importance of approaching this issue from a balanced perspective to ensure long-term stability and prosperity for all.
“In the same vein, we observed with concern, the direction of the strike action before its suspension. And what it portends for the future.
“Importantly, the shutdown of critical infrastructure, such as the national grid, constitutes economic sabotage. Which is detrimental to the well-being of our country. Those responsible for these actions must be held accountable.
“We also find it troubling that the leadership of Organized Labour, the majority of who live far above the means of the average Nigerian, would engage in actions that exacerbate the suffering of ordinary citizens.
“It is necessary, therefore, to state that while industrial actions and dissent are fundamental rights within our democratic space that must be protected. The manner in which Labour conducted itself during the just-suspended strike, largely shows a lack of empathy for Nigerians.
“Is the objective of the leadership of the unions to compel the government to implement a living wage or to inflict pain on Nigerians?
“Additionally, it is important to address persistent misinformation and disinformation propagated by organized Labour leadership regarding the earnings of lawmakers.
“This is especially because organized Labour has for years, contributed to false narratives about the remuneration of members of the National Assembly. By exaggerating figures to stoke public resentment and undermine the credibility of the Legislature.
“This tactic diverts attention from the core issues at stake and unfairly vilifies the institution of parliament. It is crucial for all parties to engage in an honest and transparent dialogue. Rather than resorting to the spread of inaccuracies for political leverage.
“Contrary to the insinuations of the Labour leadership through its social media platforms, the Legislature is on the side of Nigerians. And will continue to act in the best interest of our constituents – giving meaning to their mandate.
“The 10th House of Representatives is committed to strengthening relevant legislation. And to ensure that essential services remain operational during future industrial actions. Thereby protecting the lives and well-being of all.
“We urge the leadership of organized Labour to return to the negotiation table and engage other stakeholders. This should be done in good faith, with a view to achieving a balanced and sustainable outcome.
“The House remains steadfast in our commitment to the well-being of the Nigerian worker and the overall development of our country.”
source: The Nation
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