Anambra denies implementing anti-workers’ policies, seeks collaboration with NLC

The Anambra government has denied allegations by organised labour that it is implementing policies that are not worker-friendly.

In a letter on Wednesday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union of Nigeria (TUC) issued a seven-day strike notice to Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra, over his refusal to fully implement the 2019 minimum wage policy.

The organized labour also faulted the Soludo-led administration for the “inefficient running of the state’s contributory pension scheme and the non-constitution of civil and judiciary service commissions, among others.

However, in a statement on Friday, Christian Aburime, press secretary to the governor, said efforts are underway to resolve all outstanding issues raised by the NLC.

He said the governor is committed to improving the welfare of workers in the state, adding that the 2019 national minimum wage of N30,000 is already being paid by the government.

“Governor Soludo urged the NLC and all workers in the state to recognise the substantial progress and numerous initiatives undertaken by his administration to enhance worker welfare and human capital development,” the statement reads.

“The proposed strike is unnecessary and counterproductive at this juncture, as it might seem like the NLC leadership is being politically influenced by desperate external actors to orchestrate an artificial industrial crisis in Anambra State.

“The state government is open to meaningful dialogue and collaboration with the NLC to address any concerns amicably.

“We assure the NLC and all Anambra State workers that their demands and issues are being diligently addressed.”