The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) has accused Nigerian labour leaders of failing to address the growing issue of casualisation and outsourcing, leaving over 65% of Nigerian workers in precarious working conditions. Nigerian fashion
According to the CDWR in a statement signed by Chinedu Bosah, National Publicity Secretary, these workers are subjected to exploitative practices that have gone unchecked by trade union leaders.
“Labour leaders have not only failed to resist these anti-labour policies but also some pro-management rightwing labour leaders are in league with management and the state in setting up outsourced companies for the purpose of profiting from the slavery of workers,” the group stated.
The CDWR highlighted a previous agreement by Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero to combat casualisation and outsourced employment. Nigerian fashion
However, two years after the agreement, the group claims no significant actions have been taken.
The CDWR also criticised the labour leadership for its inaction against anti-poor policies, including the increases in fuel and electricity prices and the devaluation of the Naira, which the group argues have worsened living conditions for Nigerians.Nigerian fashion
In its May Day statement, the CDWR demanded the regularisation of all casual and outsourced contracts, a living wage of N250,000, and a reversal of neoliberal policies such as fuel price hikes and electricity tariff increases.
They also called for employers to adhere to pension laws and be penalised for failing to remit workers’ pension contributions.
The CDWR further urged workers to unite and build a democratic, fighting trade union movement to replace pro-capitalist leaders and defend the rights of the working class.
