The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has threatened to mobilize federal workers for an indefinite nationwide strike over rising insecurity and unresolved wage issues.
In a communique issued after an online meeting on Saturday, the forum criticized the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress for not taking leadership on these issues.
Signed by the National Coordinator, Andrew Emelieze, and Secretary, Ayo Ogundele, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Sunday, the communique accused the federal government of exploiting workers and failing to guarantee their safety.
The group stated that an online poll of its members overwhelmingly supported immediate strike action to address the current hardship and insecurity facing Nigeria.
It also condemned the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment, calling it a hoax for federal workers.
According to the forum, only N40,000 was added flat across all grade levels, and that amount was taxed, leaving workers with much less.
The group further alleged that the promised 40 percent peculiar allowance, announced by the Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, to take effect from May 1, 2026, was later denied by the Office of the Accountant General.
“May 2026 salaries have been paid, but no wage award was given as promised by the Minister of Finance, and consequential adjustments remain outstanding.
“Federal workers are already forfeiting promotion arrears, and some salaries and numerous arrears have entered ‘voicemail,’” the communique stated.
It listed unpaid entitlements, including two months of wage arrears since July 2024 and outstanding Duty Tour Allowance arrears.
The forum rejected a recent N100,000 minimum wage proposal by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, calling it a “Greek gift” meant to keep wages low and describing it as a “wicked conspiracy against workers.”
It demanded a living wage, immediate clearance of all outstanding arrears, and adjustment of the cost of living allowance.
On insecurity, FWF said federal workers now live in daily fear and uncertainty, with kidnappings and attacks becoming routine.
It condemned recent kidnappings in Oyo and Borno States involving children and teachers.
The forum mandated the leadership of the NLC and TUC to engage the government for a swift resolution of the hardship and insecurity issues.
It also called for the government to use all means, including negotiation, to free hostages, especially children in captivity in Oyo State and elsewhere.
Lastly, it urged the National Assembly to legislate the right of Nigerians to bear firearms and called for the convocation of a sovereign national conference to discuss the state of the nation.
