Federal Workers Forum Slams NLC, TUC, Threatens Indefinite Nationwide Strike Over Wage, Insecurity
The Federal Workers Forum has issued a strong warning that it may embark on an indefinite nationwide strike, citing unresolved wage disputes, unpaid entitlements, and worsening insecurity across the country.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued after an online meeting held on Sunday and reported by The PUNCH. The group also criticised the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (Nigeria Labour Congress) and the Trade Union Congress (Trade Union Congress of Nigeria), accusing both labour centres of failing to effectively represent workers’ interests.
The communiqué, signed by the forum’s National Coordinator, Mr. Emelieze, and Secretary, Mr. Ayo Ogundele, stated that an internal online poll showed overwhelming support among members for immediate industrial action.
According to the group, the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment has not translated into meaningful improvement for federal workers, alleging that only a flat ₦40,000 increase was implemented across salary levels and that it was also taxed.
It further claimed that a proposed 40 per cent peculiar allowance announced for implementation from May 1, 2026, was later rejected by the Office of the Accountant-General, worsening workers’ frustration. The forum also said that although May 2026 salaries have been paid, promised wage awards and consequential adjustments remain outstanding.
The workers listed several unpaid entitlements, including two months of wage award arrears dating back to July 2024, promotion arrears, and unpaid Duty Tour Allowance claims, saying some of these obligations have lingered for years.
They also rejected a proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage reportedly backed by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (Nigeria Governors’ Forum), describing it as inadequate and a “Greek gift” that would further suppress workers’ earnings. Instead, they demanded a living wage, full payment of arrears, and a cost-of-living allowance.
Beyond economic grievances, the forum raised concerns about rising insecurity, saying federal workers now live in fear due to kidnappings and violent attacks. It referenced recent abductions of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states.
The group urged both the NLC and TUC to urgently engage the Federal Government on insecurity and worsening economic hardship, and called for immediate efforts to secure the release of abducted victims, especially students and teachers.
It also appealed to the National Assembly (National Assembly of Nigeria) to consider legislation on civilian firearm ownership and called for the convocation of a sovereign national conference to address Nigeria’s broader challenges.
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