Connect with us

News

Labour Unions in FCT Threaten Strike Over Minimum Wage Non-Implementation.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

Published

on

Labour unions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have issued a strong warning of impending industrial action due to the failure to implement the ₦70,000 minimum wage. This move aligns with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) directive for a nationwide strike set to commence on December 1, 2024.

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the minimum wage bill into law on May 29, 2024, the FCT, along with seven other states—Zamfara, Sokoto, Osun, Cross River, Imo, Plateau, and Taraba—has yet to approve the new wage, which was expected to take effect in October.

In a statement to Punch, Stephen Knabayi, Chairman of the FCT Council of the NLC, expressed frustration over the administration’s inaction, stating that attempts to engage with the FCT government have been unsuccessful. He characterized the current treatment of workers as “unfair and unsustainable,” emphasizing that the ₦70,000 minimum wage falls short of meeting the rising cost of living.

Knabayi remarked, “FCT has not implemented the minimum wage. We have tried to meet with the FCT administration, but that has not been possible. We are going to follow the directive of the NLC and shut down everywhere by November 30. Even the ₦70,000 minimum wage is not enough, and it is unfair.”

Audu Akogwu, chairman of the FCT chapter of the Trade Union Congress, echoed these sentiments, alleging that the administration under Minister Nyesom Wike has not engaged with labour unions since his inauguration in August 2023. He highlighted that while the federal government has made wage payments, the FCT has not initiated any formal negotiations regarding the minimum wage.

The ongoing situation raises significant concerns about the welfare of workers in the FCT and underscores the urgent need for dialogue between labour representatives and the government to resolve these pressing issues.

Entertainment

Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Foreign

Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

Published

on

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.

Continue Reading

Entertainment

Mayorkun Considers Relocation Amidst Rising Trend of Nigerian Celebrities Abroad.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

Published

on

Afrobeats artist Mayorkun, known for hits like “Mayor of Lagos,” has publicly expressed his contemplation of relocating abroad. In a recent post on X, the singer stated, “I dey reason to japa [relocate].”

Mayorkun’s sentiment echoes a growing trend among Nigerian celebrities. The past decade has witnessed a significant exodus, with notable figures such as Tacha, Eldee, and Genevieve Nnaji among those who have chosen to relocate. This trend, further exemplified by Banky W’s move to the United States for educational pursuits last year, highlights concerns regarding current socio-economic conditions within Nigeria. The reasons behind these decisions are multifaceted and warrant further observation as more prominent figures weigh similar options.

Continue Reading

Trending