Senator Ali Ndume has raised concerns over the newly approved N70,000 minimum wage, its adequacy in meeting household needs, pointing out that it can only cover the cost of a single bag of rice.
In a viral video posted by Channels Television, the former Senate chief whip expressed his reservations about the wage increase announced by Bola Tinubu.
Ndume emphasized the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians amidst rising inflation and economic hardship.
“People are suffering, people are angry, people are not happy,” Ndume lamented.
“Realistically, N70,000 is like money that will buy a bag of rice or cover the cost of a bag of rice.”
The senator’s remarks come in the aftermath of a meeting between Tinubu and leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), where the new minimum wage was agreed upon.
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Originally proposed at N250,000 by labour leaders, the figure was eventually settled at N70,000 following negotiations.
While Ndume acknowledged the positive step of increasing the minimum wage, he urged Tinubu to further engage with the populace to address their concerns. “I call on the president to still open up and listen to the people,” he stated.
Ndume’s outspoken criticism of the administration led to his recent removal as Senate chief whip. The decision was prompted by comments he made regarding Tinubu’s governance, which were deemed dissenting by APC leaders.
In response to his removal, Ndume reiterated the widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians due to economic hardships. He highlighted the urgent need for government policies that reflect the realities faced by citizens grappling with inflation and rising costs of living.
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