- The ggroup accused the Federal Government of neglecting workers’ welfare
- The forum also expressed dissatisfaction over the non-implementation of a proposed 40 per cent peculiar allowance
- It further alleged that workers are yet to receive several outstanding entitlements
The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has warned that it may embark on an indefinite nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to address worsening insecurity and unresolved welfare issues affecting workers.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the threat was contained in a communiqué issued after a virtual meeting of the forum on Sunday.
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The statement, signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Comrade Andrew Emelieze, and Secretary, Ayo Ogundele, criticised both the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for what it described as a lack of decisive action in defending workers’ interests.
According to the forum, members overwhelmingly supported industrial action during an online poll conducted to assess workers’ views on the current economic and security situation in the country.
The ggroup accused the Federal Government of neglecting workers’ welfare and failing to provide adequate protection for citizens amid growing security concerns.
FWF argued that the implementation of the new minimum wage introduced in July 2024 has not significantly improved workers’ earnings.
It claimed that a uniform increase of N40,000 was added to salaries across grade levels and that deductions further reduced the actual benefit received by employees.
The forum also expressed dissatisfaction over the non-implementation of a proposed 40 per cent peculiar allowance, which it said had earlier been announced by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, as taking effect from May 2026.
According to the group, the promise was later contradicted by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation.
It further alleged that workers are yet to receive several outstanding entitlements, including wage award arrears, promotion-related payments and Duty Tour Allowance arrears.
The communiqué stated that salaries for May had been paid without the expected wage award, while consequential adjustments linked to the new wage structure remain unresolved.
The forum also rejected a proposal by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum advocating a N100,000 minimum wage, describing it as inadequate and incapable of meeting the realities of the current cost of living.
It called for the introduction of a realistic living wage and the immediate settlement of all outstanding financial obligations owed to federal workers.
On the issue of insecurity, the group lamented the increasing cases of kidnappings and violent attacks across the country, saying many workers now live under constant fear.
The forum specifically condemned the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, urging authorities to intensify efforts to secure the release of all victims.
FWF urged the leadership of the NLC and TUC to engage the government urgently to find lasting solutions to the economic hardship and security challenges confronting Nigerians.
The group also called on the Federal Government to explore every available option, including negotiations where necessary, to secure the freedom of hostages held by criminal groups.
In addition, the forum appealed to the National Assembly to consider legislation that would allow Nigerians to legally possess firearms for self-defence, while also advocating the convening of a sovereign national conference to discuss the country’s future and address longstanding national concerns.
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