Federal Workers Threaten Indefinite Strike Over unpaid wages, Insecurity

The Federal Workers Forum has warned that federal employees across the country may embark on an indefinite strike if the government fails to address lingering wage concerns and the growing security challenges confronting Nigerians.

The decision was contained in a communiqué released after an online meeting of the group. The forum said many of its members supported immediate industrial action, arguing that workers have continued to suffer under difficult economic conditions while insecurity remains a major concern nationwide.

The group criticised both the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, accusing the labour centres of not taking strong enough action on issues affecting workers. According to the forum, federal employees have been left without adequate support despite facing rising living costs and security threats.

The forum also accused the Federal Government of failing to fulfil several promises made to workers. It argued that the minimum wage adjustment introduced in July 2024 did not bring the expected relief. According to the group, the increase added a fixed amount across salary grades, while deductions further reduced the benefit workers eventually received.

The workers further complained about the non-implementation of the 40 per cent peculiar allowance earlier announced for federal workers. They noted that although assurances had been given that the allowance would take effect from May 2026, it was later rejected by another government office.

The forum stated that workers were also disappointed by the absence of the wage award promised by the Minister of Finance. It added that salary adjustments linked to the wage review have not been fully implemented.

According to the group, several outstanding payments remain unpaid, including promotion arrears, wage award arrears dating back to July 2024 and unpaid Duty Tour Allowance claims. The workers said many public servants have become accustomed to waiting indefinitely for benefits that should have been paid long ago.

The forum also rejected the recent proposal for a N100,000 national minimum wage being considered by state governors. It argued that the amount would not adequately meet the needs of workers in the current economic climate. Instead, the group called for a living wage capable of helping workers cope with rising prices of food, transportation and other basic necessities.

On the issue of security, the forum expressed concern over the increasing number of kidnappings and attacks reported across the country. It said many workers now live in fear due to the worsening security situation.

The group specifically referred to recent incidents involving children and teachers in Oyo and Borno states. It called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to secure the release of those still being held captive and improve security nationwide.

The forum directed the leadership of the NLC and TUC to engage the government on both economic hardship and insecurity in order to find lasting solutions. It also urged lawmakers to consider legislation that would allow Nigerians to legally possess firearms for self-defence.

In addition, the workers called for the convening of a sovereign national conference where critical national issues can be discussed and solutions proposed.

The group maintained that urgent action is needed to improve the welfare and safety of Nigerians and warned that workers may proceed with nationwide industrial action if their concerns remain unresolved.