Following the increasing cost of production of building blocks, particularly price of sand, block moulders in Ondo State have downed tools.
The moulders, under the aegis of National Association of Block Moulders of Nigeria, NABMON, Ondo State chapter, who fumed at the astronomical increase in the cost of purchasing sand, emphasized that none of their members can survive under such a business environment.
While stressing that the situation might force them to increase price of blocks in the state, they maintained that the indefinite strike must be strictly adhered to by block moulders across the state.
According to the association, any member caught flouting the order would be sanctioned with the payment of a N100,000 fine.
In their determination to enforce the order, some block industries along Oda within Akure, the state capital, who flouted the directive, were made to pay the compulsory fine.
Speaking on the development, the President of NABMON in the state, Elder Odekunle Daramola, said the move became necessary in order to register their displeasure over the recent decision by the Tipper Association to increase the load of sand against the usual price.
According to him, “the load of sand which is being sold for about N30,000 has been increased to N60,000. And if the situation is not properly addressed by the concerned union, especially the molders, it will affect the entire state and people who are currently building houses across the state.
“We are presently on strike to register our grievances over the astronomic increase in the cost of sand. With the recent development a 9-inches block will cost N500, while 6-inches block will also cost N400.
“This is quite unacceptable and many people cannot afford it. Does dollar or naira affect the cost of sand? Why did the Tipper Association suddenly increase the cost of sand?”
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