“No One Should Settle for N70,000 Minimum Wage” – Ondo APC Guber Aspirant Edema

In a bold statement on Labour Day, Olugbenga Edema, a governorship aspirant from the All Progressives Congress (APC), urged workers across the country not to settle for the current N70,000 minimum wage. Edema, who is also the Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), praised the hard work and dedication of Nigerian workers while advocating for a significant increase in the minimum wage to meet the rising cost of living.

In his press release, Edema emphasized that a higher minimum wage is essential for improving the standard of living for workers who tirelessly contribute to the growth and prosperity of the state and the nation. He asserted that the current economic situation calls for a substantial review of the minimum wage to ensure that it aligns with workers’ needs.

“On this auspicious occasion of May Day, I must recognize the invaluable contributions of our workforce to the growth and development of our dear state and country,” Edema said. “It is crucial that we ensure their welfare by setting a minimum wage that reflects the current economic conditions.”

Edema suggested that the minimum wage for Nigerian workers should be raised to at least N250,000 per month, calculated at the rate of N1,250 to a dollar. This increase, he explained, is necessary to match the economic realities facing workers and to provide them with a decent standard of living.

The governorship aspirant criticized the current N70,000 minimum wage as inadequate, especially as the cost of living continues to rise. “No worker should have to make do with a meagre N70,000 when the cost of living continues to rise,” he stated.

The call for an increase in the minimum wage has gained momentum, with several labour groups and stakeholders advocating for better pay for workers. Edema’s stance adds to the growing pressure on the government to review the minimum wage and implement a rate that reflects the realities of the Nigerian economy.