The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has threatened to mobilise federal workers for an indefinite nationwide strike over worsening insecurity and unresolved wage-related disputes across the country.
The group issued the warning in a communiqué released after an online meeting held on Sunday, where it also criticised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for what it described as a lack of decisive leadership on pressing labour issues.
Signed by its National Coordinator, Mr Emelieze, and Secretary, Mr Ayo Ogundele, the forum accused the Federal Government of failing to protect workers and adequately address rising economic hardship.
According to the group, a recent internal poll showed overwhelming support among members for an immediate strike action to press home demands related to wages and security concerns.
The forum alleged that the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment had not translated into meaningful income improvements for federal workers, claiming that only a flat N40,000 increase was implemented across salary grades and subsequently subjected to taxation.
It further claimed that other promised allowances and arrears remain unpaid or inconsistently implemented, leading to growing frustration among workers.
“The promised 40 per cent peculiar allowance… was later denounced by the Office of the Accountant-General,” the communiqué stated, adding that workers have continued to face delays in salary-related entitlements.
The FWF also accused authorities of failing to fulfil commitments on wage awards and arrears, including outstanding payments dating back several months.
It described a proposed N100,000 minimum wage reportedly supported by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum as inadequate, calling it a “Greek gift” and a “conspiracy against workers’ welfare.”
The group demanded the immediate implementation of a living wage structure, alongside full payment of all outstanding allowances, arrears, and cost-of-living adjustments.
Beyond labour concerns, the forum also raised alarm over deteriorating security conditions, stating that federal workers now live in constant fear due to rising cases of kidnappings and violent attacks.
It specifically referenced recent abductions in Oyo and Borno States involving schoolchildren and teachers, describing the incidents as unacceptable.
The FWF urged the leadership of the NLC and TUC to urgently engage the Federal Government to resolve both wage and insecurity challenges affecting workers nationwide.
It also called on government authorities to take immediate steps to secure the release of hostages across the country, particularly abducted children.
Additionally, the forum appealed to the National Assembly to consider legislation allowing citizens to bear arms for self-defence.
It further demanded the convocation of a sovereign national conference to address Nigeria’s structural and governance challenges.
The group warned that failure to address these issues could lead to widespread industrial action that may disrupt public services nationwide.
