Senate President Godswill Akpabio has raised concerns over the adequacy of salaries for members of the National Assembly to meet the demands of their constituents. He made this statement during a session on Monday while contributing to a debate initiated by Abdulraman Kawu Suleiman, a member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) representing Kano South. The debate centered on the urgent need to prevent an impending strike planned by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Akpabio emphasized that the volume of requests from various constituents represented in the National Assembly was significant, making it difficult for lawmakers’ earnings to sufficiently cater to these demands. He acknowledged the immense hardships faced by the populace due to the removal of subsidies on petroleum products, but he urged patience with the government as it took steps to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.
In defense of his motion, Kawu highlighted the potential consequences of the proposed strike. He warned that if the NLC went ahead with the industrial action, the country would face severe disruptions as commercial transport operators would suspend services, markets, schools, and healthcare facilities would close down. He stressed that the aftermath of the strike would be detrimental, outweighing any potential gains for either party involved.
“The strike threat by the NLC, if not averted, could plunge Nigeria into deeper economic woes, dislocate businesses, hunger, frustration, more hardship that would lead to unquantified financial losses and reduce Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” Kawu said. He also raised concerns about the negative image such a strike would project for the Nigerian economy and its educational system, potentially deterring foreign investors and students from engaging in business or studying in Nigeria.
Following the thorough debate, the Senate took decisive action and mandated its leadership to mediate between the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Federal Government in an effort to avert the impending strike. The Senate hopes that this intervention will help address the issues raised by both parties and prevent any disruptions that could adversely impact the nation’s economy and well-being.
By engaging in dialogue and seeking a peaceful resolution, the Senate aims to strike a balance between addressing the concerns of the NLC and ensuring the stability and development of the country. As the discussions progress, the nation keenly awaits the outcome of these negotiations.
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