Obasanjo Minimum Wage Stance Sparks Debate
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has thrust Nigeria’s wage crisis into the spotlight with his scathing critique of the Obasanjo minimum wage issue in March 2025. In his newly released book Nigeria: Past and Future, launched around March 16, Obasanjo labeled the ₦70,000 minimum wage—enacted by President Bola Tinubu in July 2024—as woefully inadequate amid rampant inflation.
His remarks, accusing labor unions of betrayal and corruption, have ignited a firestorm of public and political reactions. As of March 19, the Obasanjo minimum wage controversy is reshaping discussions on worker welfare and governance. This article unpacks his critique, its context, and what it means for Nigeria.
The Core of Obasanjo’s Minimum Wage Criticism
Obasanjo’s critique of the Obasanjo minimum wage narrative centers on its failure to support workers. He argues that ₦70,000—roughly $44 USD—cannot cover essentials like transportation, food, or housing in today’s economy. “The minimum wage does not even cover transportation costs for some workers,” he wrote, calling it a stark reflection of Nigeria’s struggles. Vanguard News reported his statements, emphasizing how inflation, exceeding 30% in 2024, has gutted the wage’s value since its passage.
He didn’t stop there. Obasanjo accused labor leaders from the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) of selling out workers for personal gain. He claims they accepted bribes to soften their stance during 2024 negotiations, stating, “Money in large amounts is stuffed into their hands, and they keep quiet.” This has fueled the Obasanjo minimum wage uproar, spotlighting union credibility.
Background: The ₦70,000 Minimum Wage Deal
The Obasanjo minimum wage critique targets a policy born from tense 2024 talks. Signed into law on July 29, 2024, the ₦70,000 wage doubled the previous ₦30,000 but fell short of the NLC’s ₦250,000 demand. Punch Nigeria covered the negotiations, noting labor’s threats of strikes amid Tinubu’s economic reforms—like fuel subsidy cuts—that spiked living costs. Yet, many states lag in implementation, and Obasanjo argues it’s a hollow victory, eroded by economic realities.
Public and Political Fallout
The Obasanjo minimum wage remarks have struck a chord. On X, Nigerians vent frustration—some hail him for exposing wage inadequacy, others question his own record from 1999-2007. The Guardian Nigeria reports growing calls for reform, with analysts citing World Bank data showing 38.8% of Nigerians in poverty in 2025. Labor unions, led by NLC’s Joe Ajaero, have yet to respond fully, though his July 2024 “mixed feelings” hint at internal rifts Obasanjo’s words may widen.
Politically, it’s a subtle jab at Tinubu. Obasanjo’s suggestion—barring union leaders from politics for five years post-tenure—adds a governance twist to the Obasanjo minimum wage saga, stirring 2027 election chatter.
What’s Next for the Obasanjo Minimum Wage Issue?
As of March 19, the Obasanjo minimum wage debate is heating up. Unions may counterattack, defending their role, while Tinubu’s administration faces pressure to address wage adequacy—especially after Rivers State’s emergency distracted focus. Public unrest could grow, with X posts hinting at protests if living costs aren’t tackled. Daily Post Nigeria notes Obasanjo’s call for systemic change, but solutions remain elusive in Nigeria’s strained economy.
Conclusion: The Obasanjo Minimum Wage Ripple Effect
The Obasanjo minimum wage critique is more than a headline—it’s a wake-up call for Nigeria. As of March 19, 2025, it’s amplifying worker struggles and challenging leaders to act. Will it spark real change, or fade as political noise? Obasanjo’s voice has reignited a critical fight—stay tuned as this unfolds. What’s your take on the Obasanjo minimum wage row? Do you believe the ex-president of Nigeria is right in this criticism?
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