The Federal Workers Forum has threatened to mobilise federal workers for an indefinite nationwide strike over worsening insecurity and unresolved wage-related issues across the country.
The forum disclosed this in a communiqué issued after an online meeting held on Sunday, where it criticised both the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress for allegedly failing to provide strong leadership on workers’ welfare and security concerns.
The communiqué, signed by the forum’s National Coordinator, Mr Emelieze, and Secretary, Ayo Ogundele, accused the Federal Government of neglecting workers while the economic hardship facing Nigerians continues to worsen.
According to the group, an online poll conducted among members showed overwhelming support for an immediate nationwide strike action.
Workers reject wage implementation
The forum described the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment as inadequate, alleging that only a flat ₦40,000 increase was added across all grade levels and subsequently subjected to taxation.
According to the communiqué, workers were left with significantly reduced take-home pay despite rising living costs nationwide.
The group also faulted the handling of the proposed 40 per cent peculiar allowance earlier announced by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack.
It alleged that the Office of the Accountant-General later distanced itself from the implementation of the allowance.
“May 2026 salaries have been paid, but no wage award was given as promised by the Minister of Finance, and consequential adjustments remain outstanding.
“Federal workers are already getting used to forfeiting their promotion arrears and, as a matter of fact, some salaries and numerous arrears have entered ‘voice mail’,” the communiqué stated.
The forum further listed unpaid entitlements, including outstanding wage award arrears dating back to July 2024 and unpaid Duty Tour Allowance arrears.
Forum rejects governors’ wage proposal
The workers’ group also rejected the recent ₦100,000 minimum wage proposal reportedly backed by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
It described the proposal as a “Greek gift” and accused political leaders of conspiring to suppress workers’ earnings despite inflation and economic realities.
The forum demanded what it called a “living wage” capable of reflecting current economic conditions, alongside immediate payment of all outstanding arrears and cost-of-living allowances.
Insecurity concerns raised
Beyond wage issues, the forum expressed concern over rising insecurity across Nigeria, stating that many workers now live in fear due to kidnappings and violent attacks.
It specifically condemned recent kidnapping incidents in Oyo and Borno states involving children and teachers.
The group called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of hostages and restore public confidence in national security.
It also urged the National Assembly to consider legislation allowing Nigerians the right to bear firearms for self-defence.
Call for national dialogue
The forum further demanded the convocation of a sovereign national conference to address the country’s growing political, economic, and security challenges.
It also directed the leadership of the NLC and TUC to immediately engage the government toward resolving issues relating to workers’ welfare and insecurity.
Political and labour analysts say the threat of industrial action could increase pressure on the Federal Government as concerns over inflation, insecurity, and cost of living continue to dominate national discourse ahead of the 2027 elections.
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