Workers threaten indefinite strike over pay, insecurity

The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has warned it may embark on an indefinite nationwide strike, citing worsening insecurity and unresolved wage issues affecting federal employees.

In a communiqué issued after a virtual meeting on Sunday, the group criticised the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria for what it described as a failure to provide decisive leadership on workers’ welfare.

The statement, signed by National Coordinator Mr Emelieze and Secretary Mr Ayo Ogundele, accused the Federal Government of neglecting workers’ safety and failing to meet key financial obligations.

According to the forum, an internal poll among members showed overwhelming support for an immediate strike in response to economic hardship and security concerns.

The group also dismissed the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment as inadequate, alleging that only a flat N40,000 increase was added across all salary levels and subsequently taxed, reducing its real value.

It further claimed that a proposed 40 per cent peculiar allowance—earlier announced by Didi Walson-Jack to take effect from May 1, 2026—was later disowned by the Office of the Accountant-General.

The communiqué noted that May 2026 salaries had been paid without the promised wage award, while promotion arrears and other entitlements remained outstanding. It added that workers were still owed two months of wage award arrears dating back to July 2024, as well as Duty Tour Allowance payments.

The FWF also rejected a proposed N100,000 minimum wage put forward by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, describing it as insufficient and a deliberate attempt to suppress workers’ earnings.

On security, the forum said federal workers now operate under constant fear due to rising kidnappings and attacks nationwide. It condemned recent abductions in Oyo and Borno states involving teachers and schoolchildren.

The group called on labour leaders to urgently engage the government to resolve the crisis, while urging authorities to prioritise the rescue of kidnapped victims.

Additionally, it appealed to the National Assembly to consider legislation allowing Nigerians to bear arms for self-defence and advocated the convening of a sovereign national conference to address the country’s broader challenges.