A disagreement over a proposed ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for federal workers has widened into a public dispute between Nigeria Labour Congress president Joe Ajaero and Trade Union Congress president Festus Osifo.
The Federal Government and the NLC reportedly reached an understanding on a six month allowance intended to ease commuting costs. The TUC rejected the measure, arguing that workers required a lasting salary improvement rather than a temporary payment.
During separate appearances on Channels Television, Ajaero defended the negotiations as the outcome of a formal NLC ultimatum and subsequent bargaining with government officials. He argued that the TUC should not dismiss an agreement reached through a process in which it did not participate.
Osifo countered that the TUC had also engaged the government on workers’ welfare and maintained that the NLC could not negotiate on behalf of TUC affiliates. The two leaders exchanged personal accusations about their records and conduct. Those accusations have not been independently substantiated in the supplied account.
The controversy raises wider questions about coordination between the country’s major labour federations and whether temporary relief can adequately address persistent pressure on workers’ earnings. The final signed agreement, implementation circular and TUC’s formal position should be reviewed to establish what workers are actually entitled to receive.
