Human rights activist and AAC presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has criticised the reported proposal by state governors to set Nigeria’s minimum wage at N100,000, describing the figure as inadequate to meet the basic needs of workers.
In a tweet on Friday via his X handle, Sowore argued that the proposed wage falls far short of what is required for a decent standard of living amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of essential goods and services.
According to him, the amount would barely cover the cost of a bag of rice and would be insufficient to meet other necessities such as housing, transportation, healthcare, education and utility bills.
“Just hours after we proposed a living wage for Nigerian workers, the governors have reportedly responded with their own proposal of a N100,000 minimum wage,” he said.
Sowore accused state governors of ignoring the harsh economic realities confronting workers while continuing to enjoy what he described as extravagant lifestyles funded by public resources.
He further alleged that political leaders were resisting meaningful wage reforms because they feared Nigerians could embrace an alternative model of governance focused on improving workers’ welfare and ensuring equitable distribution of national resources.
“The governors know very well that no worker can live decently on N100,000 per month in today’s Nigeria,” he said.
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The activist maintained that any minimum wage framework should guarantee dignity and a reasonable quality of life rather than perpetuate hardship among workers.
His comments come amid ongoing debates between government officials, labour unions and other stakeholders over the appropriate level for a new national minimum wage in the face of worsening economic conditions.
Sowore insisted that Nigerian workers deserve a living wage capable of addressing the realities of inflation and rising living costs across the country.
