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The Implications of Non-compliance with Nigeria’s Minimum Wage Law

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The recent pronouncement by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) calling for the implementation of the newly approved national minimum wage underscores a critical juncture in Nigeria’s labour relations and economic landscape. Signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in July, the new national minimum wage is set at ₦70,000. While the intent of this legislation is to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of workers amidst an ever-increasing cost of living, compliance among the states has been inconsistent, raising concerns over potential unrest and labour disputes.

As of October 2024, the NLC has reported that while some states, such as Lagos and Ogun, have taken significant steps to comply by increasing their wage offerings, many others remain laggard in meeting the legal obligation. The spokesperson for the NLC, Benson Upah, emphasized that the challenges largely stem from the consequential wage adjustment, a formula intended to fairly augment salaries in accordance with each worker’s grade level. This complexity has resulted in varied levels of implementation across the nation, with some states merely forming committees without effecting actual pay increases.

The NLC and other unions, such as the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, have expressed their discontent with the situation, indicating that no state has fully implemented the new minimum wage to date. Government announcements alone, as noted by the General Secretary of ASCSN, Joshua Apebo, have not translated into actionable changes for workers. This dissonance between verbal commitments and tangible actions could potentially lead to significant unrest, particularly as the economic pressures on the populace escalate due to inflation and fluctuations in the exchange rate.

The NLC’s warning that states failing to comply would face “trouble” illustrates the precarious position of state governments in navigating their fiscal responsibilities against the backdrop of public discontent. With revenue from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) indicating increased financial flows to states, the argument for non-compliance appears tenuous. As Upah aptly stated, “the states have become very rich” and therefore must prioritize fulfilling their legal obligations to prevent destabilization.

In conclusion, the successful implementation of the new national minimum wage is both a legal obligation for the states and a moral imperative to protect the welfare of workers in Nigeria. As the NLC prepares to hold state governments accountable, the urgency for action grows. Failure to comply not only jeopardizes the financial security of countless families but also threatens the broader social harmony, risking the resurgence of unrest in a nation already facing various economic challenges. Therefore, it is imperative for state governments to expedite the implementation process and uphold the rights of their workers in accordance with the law.

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News

Lagos State Reaffirms Focus on Road Safety, Not Revenue, with Speed Enforcement.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to road safety, emphasizing that the recently implemented speed limit enforcement and e-policing camera system is primarily designed to reduce accidents and fatalities, not to generate revenue.

Speaking on a local radio program, Mr. Musa clarified that the initiative aims to curb excessive speeding, a key contributor to road accidents. He stated that compliance with speed limits is crucial for saving lives and preventing injuries, and that the enforcement measures, though often met with resistance, are necessary for public safety.

Further, Mr. Musa addressed concerns regarding potential errors and assured the public that a transparent process exists for contesting perceived wrongful fines. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to equitable enforcement, noting that even government vehicles have been subject to fines for violations. He urged motorists to adhere to posted speed limits, especially along the Alapere axis and the Third Mainland Bridge, and to utilize designated locations for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The government is also addressing issues of missing or vandalized road signs through alternative measures like direct road markings.

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Entertainment

Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Hollywood mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse and memorable roles, who passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news.

Kilmer, a prominent figure in 1990s cinema, achieved widespread recognition for his performances in iconic films such as “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” where he embodied Jim Morrison, and “Tombstone,” where he portrayed Doc Holliday. He also donned the cowl as Batman in “Batman Forever.” His extensive filmography includes significant roles in “Heat,” “The Saint,” “Willow,” and the recent “Top Gun: Maverick.”

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Kilmer’s career was marked by periods of controversy and fluctuating box office success. He was reportedly diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, though he later recovered.

Val Kilmer’s talent and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly be remembered by audiences for years to come.

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Foreign

Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.

The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.

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