The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticized Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for threatening to dismiss public sector workers participating in the ongoing strike over the non-payment of the new N70,000 minimum wage.
In a statement issued by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the union described the Governor’s remarks as “irresponsible” and called on state workers to intensify their strike and resist intimidation.
The NLC also directed private sector employees in Ebonyi to join the protest in solidarity.
“We are shocked by Governor Nwifuru’s statement that workers who do not return to work immediately should consider themselves fired,” Ajaero stated.
“The strike was initiated after failed negotiations and repeated notices to the Governor regarding the non-payment of the 2024 national minimum wage, which became law months ago.”
The NLC emphasized that striking was a lawful right of workers and criticized the Governor’s refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue.
The union called for a resolution through conversation but accused the Governor of acting arrogantly by avoiding such talks.
The NLC also announced that all its affiliated unions, including those in the private sector, were instructed to join the ongoing industrial action.
They urged workers to stand firm in their demands for the Governor to comply with the law and implement the minimum wage.
The statement concluded by assuring workers of further instructions and support in the coming hours.
