•Governor Nwifuru
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the threat by Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State to sack public sector workers who are striking over the non-implementation of the N70,000 new minimum wage.
In a statement by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the labor body called the governor’s threat “irresponsible” and urged state workers to intensify the strike, refusing to be intimidated by the threat. The NLC also directed private sector workers in the state to join the ongoing industrial action.
“We are dismayed by the statement credited to the Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. Nwifuru, that striking workers should consider themselves sacked unless they resume work immediately,” Ajaero said. “The strike followed failed negotiations and prior notices to the Governor regarding the non-payment of the 2024 national minimum wage, which was signed into law months ago.”
The NLC emphasised that the strike was a lawful tool for workers to enforce their rights and that the governor’s approach was unhelpful. The union called for dialogue, but accused the Governor of acting arrogantly by refusing to engage in discussions.
Furthermore, the NLC announced that all affiliated unions, including those in the private sector, had been instructed to join the strike. They also urged workers to remain resolute in their actions until the Governor complies with the law and pays the minimum wage.
The statement concluded with a promise of further directives in the coming hours.
