Workers Threaten Nationwide Indefinite Strike Over Wage Disputes, Rising Insecurity
The threat was contained in a communiqué issued after an online meeting held on Sunday, where the forum criticised the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), accusing both labour centres of failing to provide adequate leadership amid worsening economic hardship faced by workers.
The communiqué, signed by the forum’s National Coordinator, Mr. Emelieze, and Secretary, Mr. Ayo Ogundele, accused the Federal Government of neglecting workers’ welfare and failing to guarantee their safety.
According to the group, an online poll conducted among members showed overwhelming support for immediate industrial action to push for solutions to the country’s economic and security challenges.
The forum described the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment as inadequate, alleging that the increase only resulted in a flat addition of N40,000 across salary structures, which was also subjected to taxation, thereby reducing its impact on workers’ take-home pay.
The group also alleged that the 40 per cent peculiar allowance earlier announced by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, and expected to take effect from May 1, 2026, was later denied by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.
“May 2026 salaries have been paid, but no wage award was implemented as promised by the Minister of Finance, while consequential adjustments remain unresolved,” the communiqué stated.
The forum further lamented the non-payment of promotion arrears and other outstanding entitlements, alleging that workers have repeatedly lost benefits due to delayed implementation of agreements.
Among the unpaid entitlements highlighted by the group are two months’ wage award arrears dating back to July 2024 and outstanding Duty Tour Allowances.
FWF also rejected the proposed N100,000 minimum wage reportedly suggested by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, describing it as insufficient and incapable of addressing current economic realities.
The forum demanded the implementation of a living wage, payment of all outstanding arrears, and additional cost-of-living support for workers.
On insecurity, the group expressed concern over persistent attacks and kidnappings across parts of the country, saying many workers now live in fear.
It specifically condemned recent abductions involving schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, urging authorities to intensify efforts toward securing their release.
The forum also called on the leadership of the NLC and TUC to urgently engage the Federal Government on economic hardship and security concerns affecting workers nationwide.
Additionally, it urged the National Assembly to consider legislation supporting citizens’ rights to lawful self-defence and advocated for a sovereign national conference to address broader national challenges.
