Resolve Minimum Wage Now to Avert Violent Protest, FG Warned

The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) has urged the federal government to resolve the ongoing minimum wage issue to prevent violent protests similar to those in Kenya. At a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Maj.-Gen. Christopher Olukolade (Rtd), Chairman of the CCC’s Board of Trustees, emphasized the need for the government to address this matter promptly to avoid unnecessary crises.

Olukolade, a former spokesman for the Nigerian Army, highlighted several issues that could potentially escalate into violence if not managed properly. He called on federal and state governments and the organized private sector to urgently conclude the minimum wage negotiations.

“We have identified potentially violent or volatile developments in the country which we believe could spark off unnecessary crises with far-reaching consequences to our national security if they are not well-managed,” Olukolade said.

He stressed the importance of resolving the minimum wage issue, which has caused friction between the labour movement and the federal government. “We do not subscribe to sweeping this issue under the carpet. We, therefore, want to call on the government unequivocally and the organized private sector to summon the required courage to take a decision on this matter and resolve it once and for all,” he stated.

Olukolade also expressed concern over the continued violent developments in Kenya and cautioned against adopting similar protest tactics in Nigeria. “Those who believe that such destructive protests in Nigeria will be a way to resolving a crisis are rather calling for what is not consistent with our future and desire for a peaceful and progressive nation,” he said.

Additionally, Olukolade addressed the political feud in Rivers State and the emirship tussle in Kano, both of which he described as having significant potential for volatility. He called on the involved parties to act in the general interest of the people and to avoid plunging their states into crisis.

“We are using this opportunity to call on those involved to sheath the sword and relate, and when they relate, we believe that this could be solved, and there’s no need to plunge that state into crisis,” he said regarding the situation in Rivers State.

Concerning the emirship tussle in Kano, Olukolade warned, “We do not want it to slide into trouble because of the Emirship tussle. We cannot combine that with what’s going on in Rivers State. Nigeria’s unity and corporate existence are more important to us than any achievement through fake news and unnecessary sentiments.”

The CCC’s warnings underscore the need for decisive and timely government action to address these issues and maintain peace and stability in Nigeria.