The ongoing strike action by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) is a powerful rebuke to the entrenched culture of corruption that has plagued the country for decades.
With over 50 million Nigerians living in poverty and a faltering economy, the time has come for the Nigerian government to heed the demands of its workers and address the systemic injustices that have held the country back.
The strike action is not just about wages but about the right to a dignified existence, free from the tyranny of corruption and mismanagement. For too long, the political elite have used their positions of power to enrich themselves at the expense of ordinary Nigerians. The recent revelations of lavish spending by government officials, including the outrageous allocation of N100 million each for cars for senators, are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the endemic corruption in the Nigerian political system.
The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), provides in section 15(5): “The state shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
Despite this constitutional provision, the practice of awarding inflated contracts to cronies and siphoning off public funds has become so commonplace that it has almost been normalized. However, the NLC and TUC are sending a clear message that this state of affairs is no longer acceptable.
By demanding a living wage and an end to corruption, the unions are fighting for the soul of Nigeria.
It is important to remember that the corrupt practices of the government have not just deprived Nigerians of economic opportunities and basic services, but they have also eroded public trust in democratic institutions and the rule of law.
In the words of Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, “Corruption, the greatest single bane of our society, has developed such a seeming innocence and pervasiveness that its spread resembles that of a dreaded disease.”
Indeed, the cancer of corruption has infected every facet of Nigerian society, and it will take more than a strike action to root it out.
In this context, the recent arrest of Mrs. Betta Edu, former Cross River State Commissioner for Health, on charges of misappropriating N750 million meant for COVID-19 intervention funds, highlights the depth of corruption in the Nigerian political system.
The EFCC’s ongoing investigation into Mrs. Edu’s case serves as a reminder that no one, not even those in positions of power, is above the law. However, more needs to be done to ensure that those who engage in corrupt practices are held accountable for their actions.
The NLC and TUC’s strike action is, therefore, a wake-up call not just to the Federal Government but also to all Nigerians. It is a call to action, a call to reject the politics of corruption and the cult of mediocrity that has become the hallmark of Nigerian governance.
In the words of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, former Finance Minister and current Director-General of the World Trade Organization, “The fight against corruption is the defining fight of this generation and the most critical factor in determining Nigeria’s success.”
The NLC and TUC must continue to lead this fight by maintaining their strike action until the Federal Government meets their demands for a fair wage and an end to corruption. In doing so, they will be setting a precedent that will resonate beyond the confines of this particular dispute.
The future of Nigeria depends on the willingness of its people to stand up against injustice and demand accountability from their leaders. The labour unions’ strike action is a vital step in this process.
Let us all remember the words of Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician and activist: “Fight am, fight am!”
In conclusion, the ongoing strike action by the NLC and TUC serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for reform in Nigeria. The fight against corruption and for a fair wage is not just about economics but about the fundamental principles of justice, dignity, and accountability.
By demanding change, the unions are sending a message that the Nigerian people will no longer accept the status quo of mismanagement and inequality. It is now up to the government to listen and respond to these demands with action, not just rhetoric.
I’m Chief Dr Patrick Osagie Eholor otherwise known as Ultimate Equal, President One Love Foundation
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