The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has threatened to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike, citing worsening insecurity, unpaid entitlements, and unresolved wage-related issues affecting federal workers across the country.
In a communiqué issued after an online meeting, the forum expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of workers’ welfare and accused the Federal Government of failing to adequately address the economic hardships faced by civil servants.
The group also criticised the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), alleging that both labour centres had not provided sufficient leadership in tackling workers’ concerns.
According to the forum, members overwhelmingly supported the idea of an immediate strike action through an online poll, arguing that the rising cost of living and growing insecurity have made daily life increasingly difficult for workers.
The FWF further claimed that the implementation of the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment fell short of expectations, alleging that the salary increase was inadequate and heavily impacted by taxation. It also lamented the non-payment of outstanding wage awards, promotion arrears, consequential adjustments, and other allowances owed to federal workers.
The forum listed unpaid entitlements to include wage award arrears and Duty Tour Allowance arrears, while demanding the immediate settlement of all outstanding payments and the introduction of a realistic living wage.
On security concerns, the group expressed alarm over the increasing incidents of kidnappings and attacks across the country, noting that many workers now live in fear. It specifically highlighted recent abductions involving teachers and schoolchildren in parts of the country.
The forum called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of hostages and improve national security. It also urged labour leaders to engage the government urgently to address workers’ welfare and the broader security challenges confronting the nation.
The FWF warned that failure to address its demands could result in a nationwide industrial action capable of disrupting public services across federal institutions.
