NLC Shuts Down TV, Radio Stations Over Non Implementation of Minimum Wage

The Lagos State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), in collaboration with workers under the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), shut down operations at Lagos Television (LTV), Eko FM/Radio Lagos, and Lagos Traffic Radio on Monday. The protest was in response to the non-implementation of the N85,000 minimum wage approved by the Lagos State Government.

Workers blocked entrances and exits to the broadcast stations’ Agidingbi complex early in the morning, carrying placards with messages such as, “Give us Oracle and take the revenue generated,” “Oracle is the answer,” and “Pay us Minimum Wage.”

The state NLC Chairman, Comrade Funmi Sessi, who led the protest, described the demonstration as peaceful but resolute. Addressing journalists, she highlighted the injustice faced by the workers, stating that despite their commitment to their duties, they had been excluded from receiving the approved minimum wage since its implementation in November.

Sessi explained that the affected workers had also missed out on arrears for the past three months and the 13th-month salary. She emphasized that these workers are Lagos State employees and deserve equal treatment under the law, particularly in light of the current economic challenges.

Prior to the protest, the workers had engaged in multiple negotiations with management, issuing a 21-day notice followed by 14-day and 7-day ultimatums. Despite these efforts, the issue remained unresolved.

While acknowledging the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his empathy towards workers, Sessi called on him to intervene and ensure the management fulfills its obligations. She stressed that the union would continue its struggle until their demands are met, urging the government to act swiftly to avoid prolonged disruptions to operations.