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Oyo State Governor-elect Seyi Makinde has faulted the fixing of the new minimum wage by the Federal Government, saying states as federating units should have been allowed to determine it based on individual ability.
In a statement by his spokesman, Prince Dotun Oyelade yesterday, Makinde however promised that his administration would set up a committee to discuss the implementation of the new minimum wage with labour unions immediately after taking over on May 29.
“In the particular case of Oyo State, a committee will begin parley with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) from the first week in June to determine the extent to which government can implement not only the minimum wage, but indeed provide buffers for the workers to live decently”, the statement said.
Already, the outgoing government led by Governor Abiola Ajimobi has commenced negotiation with labour unions with a view to begin the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage in May but Makinde has frowned on the move, accusing the current administration of setting a booby trap for his administration.
The government dusmissed the allegation, saying it is only carrying out the function of government within its powers and responsibilities, up till when it hands over on May 29.