Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Lagos, has expressed that the newly increased minimum wage of N85,000 is commendable but unrealistic for Lagos workers.
He emphasized that the city’s high cost of living, particularly in transportation, food, and housing, necessitates a higher minimum wage of N100,000.
“Lagos has the highest intra-city public transportation costs in Nigeria, the second most expensive city in the country to feed, and the highest rental costs in the country, with meager investments in social housing programs,” Rhodes-Vivour stated.
He also challenged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to prioritize investments in essential services, noting that over 70% of the state’s operating revenue comes from taxes, with 45% generated from Pay As You Earn (PAYE).
“It’s crucial to recognize that the state’s wealth is primarily generated by citizens’ hard work,” Rhodes-Vivour added.
“What tangible benefits do Lagosians receive in return for this significant contribution? Do their children have access to quality public education? Is there an efficient and affordable public transportation system? Are the roads well-maintained? Is social housing readily available?”
Rhodes-Vivour concluded by questioning the vision for Lagos, stating, “While it is fair to commend opening the blue rail, albeit after 16 years, the question is, what kind of city are we building? Who are we building for, and what opportunities do we seek to tap into?”
He said that comparing Lagos to cities like Bauchi or Ekiti is misguided when Lagos lags behind its African contemporaries.
