Increasing Minimum Wage for Workers is a Bad Idea – Ekiti Catholic Bishop

Nigerian workers have been called upon to jettison the idea of minimum wage increase by the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti State who said it is a bad idea.

NLC President, Mr. Ayuba Wabba
The Catholic Bishop of Ekiti State, most Rev.

Alex Ajakaye, has advised labour unions to drop the idea of increase in minimum wage,
but instead think of how to stimulate the economy, according to a report by Punch.

Ajakaye said instead of asking for increase in wages, workers should find a way to grow the economy.
He also urged the Federal Government to revisit the report of the 2014 National Conference, saying the implementation of
the report was the only way Nigeria could move forward.

Ajakaye revealed this on Sunday during his homily at a service to mark the World Communication Day 2017 at Saints Patrick
Catholic Cathedral, Ado Ekiti.
He was a delegate to the 2014 National Conference and co-chaired the Conference
Committee on Religion with Dr. Nurudeen Lemu.

Ajakaiye said, “Minimum wage is a
maximum problem. Instead of asking for increase in wages, why don’t you agitate for
prompt payment of the one you are getting now.”

The Bishop said the Nigeria Labour Congress, instead, should focus attention on prompt payment of salaries and the stability of the value of the Naira as well as stable economy.

“Let me ask you who are Civil servants here whether you have received last month
salary, the answer is no. If the current wages are not being paid as at when due, what is the guarantee that it will be paid
when it is increased. When the market people hear that your wages have been increased, they would double the prices of
their wares.” he added