Outspoken Catholic priest and spiritual Director of the Adoration Ministry in Enugu State, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka has warned that if urgent measures are not taken to address the issues surrounding the new minimum wage and the prevailing hardships, a crisis worse than the industrial action could unfold.
Speaking with Newsmen in Enugu on Saturday, Fr. Mbaka stresssed the need for urgency and tact in handling the new minimum wage issue, emphasizing that if the situation is not managed carefully, it could escalate and lead to unpredictable consequences.
He described the Federal Government’s proposed N62,000 minimum wage as unacceptable given Nigeria’s current economic realities and argued that if the government implements the N62,000 minimum wage, the same should be extended to all political office holders.
“The minimum wage issue is a very serious matter that requires spiritual sagacity to handle,” Fr. Mbaka said. “The government must prioritize the well-being of its citizens. Building infrastructure is important, but it is pointless if people are dying of hunger. A hungry man is an angry man, and pushing the poor to the point of rebellion is a real danger.”
“If the government decides to give labourers N60,000 or N62,000, why not extend this to members of the House of Assembly, Senators, and Governors? They are all civil servants, just like the laborers. It is unjust for some to amass wealth through allowances while others struggle to survive,” he said.
“Our teachers, nurses, and doctors, who take care of our children and our health, deserve better pay. Let us be realistic and fair.”
While calling on the Nigerian Government to see the recent industrial action by organized Labour that effectively grounded the country’s economy as a warning sign, the fiery Priest noted that similar actions could lead to even more severe disruptions.
Fr. Mbaka who also highlighted his personal efforts and initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty among Nigerians, further pleaded with the government and privileged individuals to act swiftly to support the poor masses, warning that a time may come when the impoverished will no longer listen to anyone, leading to societal breakdown.
Reflecting on his recent return from the monastery, the outspoken Priest noted that he has been observing the situation and praying.
“I am speaking out of a deep passion to defend the less privileged. The people who once told me to keep quiet are now being victimized, and they are too ashamed to seek my help. But I must speak, because I care deeply about the plight of the poor,” Fr. Mbaka said.
