Arise Television presenter Rufai Oseni has criticised the presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo, over their disagreement concerning the Federal Government’s transport allowance for public-sector workers.
The two labour leaders recently disagreed over the government’s proposed ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for public-sector employees, which was approved for a six-month period.
While the TUC rejected the arrangement, Osifo maintained that the NLC could not negotiate on behalf of its members without involving the second labour centre.
He described the agreement as an aberration, insisting that both organisations must participate in negotiations affecting their respective affiliates.
Reacting during Tuesday’s edition of the Arise Television Morning Show, Oseni condemned the disagreement, accusing both union leaders of failing to adequately defend Nigerian workers amid worsening economic conditions.
The broadcaster argued that the labour movement had become divided and politicised, leaving workers without effective representation as their purchasing power and disposable income continued to decline.
“For Osifo and Ajaero, both of you should be thoroughly ashamed of yourself, and that’s why you see that labour has been dead in this administration,” Oseni said.
He compared the current situation with previous years, when labour leaders, according to him, demonstrated greater unity and coordination in challenging government policies affecting workers.
Oseni further accused the labour leadership of failing to hold the Federal Government accountable for promises made to workers, despite the economic difficulties confronting many Nigerians.
“Wages cannot really take you anywhere. A lot has happened as regards disposable income of the people, but labour has just been quiet.
“This government failed on many promises made to labour, and labour has just been quiet about it,” he added.
