Nigeria Labour Congress President, Joe Ajaero, asserted that he fearlessly challenges adversaries to advocate for Nigerian workers’ rights. Ajaero, who recently visited the Senior Staff Union in Colleges of Education, Nigeria (SSUCOEN) in Abuja, expressed no shame in his actions, viewing them as a measure of his effectiveness as the labor union’s leader.
Since assuming the presidency of the NLC through a consensus arrangement, Joe Ajaero has clashed with Eastern governors, particularly Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma. He accused Uzodinma of attempting to replicate the state executive of the NLC to enhance his political standing. Ajaero responded by temporarily halting flights from Lagos to Owerri.
During discussions with SSUCOEN officials, Joe Ajaero criticized members of the National Assembly and the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission. He alleged that they unjustly pay themselves exorbitant salaries and gratuities without possessing the required qualifications.
Ajaero stated, “We stand united in this fight. We will not simply lament; we are unashamedly fighting for the well-being of our members. Since assuming leadership, we have ruffled feathers, and in return, they are pushing back. This indicates our effectiveness.”
Regarding the budget, he drew attention to the substantial gratuities received by outgoing officials, which he deemed distressing. Ajaero questioned the qualifications of certain parliamentarians, asserting that some earn salaries equivalent to those holding higher academic degrees without possessing the required certifications. He also criticized the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission for its allegedly discriminatory practices. Some members of the commission are currently facing legal challenges due to their lack of NYSC discharge certificates or school certificates, yet they earn substantial amounts. This inconsistency, according to Joe Ajaero, highlights the scandalous double standards within the country.
Meanwhile, SSUCOEN President Danladi Msheliza urged President Muhammadu Buhari to promptly approve the bill seeking an amendment to the Act establishing colleges of education before leaving office. Msheliza emphasized that the existing Act, enacted by a decree in 1986, is outdated and inadequate for colleges of education. He highlighted that amendments have been made to acts governing polytechnics and universities. The union had initially sponsored a bill in 2018, but it failed to receive presidential assent before the eighth Assembly’s term ended. Consequently, they reintroduced the bill for consideration.