The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ondo State chapter, has appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to implement a price control mechanism in the state to address the escalating cost of food and other essential commodities.
The call was made by the state NLC Chairman, Ademola Olapade, during the 2025 May Day celebration in Akure. He lamented the worsening economic conditions that have eroded workers’ purchasing power, particularly due to skyrocketing prices of food, transportation, and housing.
“We urge the Ondo State Government to design and implement a functional price control mechanism to check the spiralling costs of goods and services,” Olapade said. “The current economic hardship affects not only civil servants but all residents.”
He also called for broader intervention programmes to cushion the impact of inflation on citizens, beyond just government employees.
Labour Lauds Governor’s Wage Increase
Despite the concerns, the NLC chairman praised the Aiyedatiwa-led administration for surpassing the federal minimum wage benchmark. Ondo is now paying ₦73,000, higher than the ₦70,000 adopted by the Federal Government.
Similarly, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman in the state, Clement Fatuase, commended the administration’s support for workers but raised concerns over proposed demolitions of government quarters.
“If reports of plans to demolish workers’ housing are true, we reject it outright. Instead of worsening the housing situation, the quarters should be renovated for continued use,” Fatuase said.
“We also urge the government to make plots of land available at subsidised rates through the State Property and Development Company.”
Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
In response, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa assured workers that their welfare remains a non-negotiable priority for his administration.
“Our government will not play politics with the wellbeing of workers. We recognise their sacrifices and will continue to protect their interests,” the governor declared.
He highlighted key interventions, including:
Implementation of the new ₦73,000 minimum wage,
Monthly pension payments of ₦30,000 for retirees,
Timely promotions and an ongoing 2025 promotion exercise.
The governor lauded the dedication of the workforce, describing them as the “engine of governance” driving the state’s development.
