The industrial action by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has disrupted civil services across Kogi, Nasarawa, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), while workers in Zamfara State defied the strike directive, reporting to their offices as usual.
Ebonyi: Governor Threatens Striking Workers
In Ebonyi State, Governor Francis Nwifuru vowed to replace striking civil servants who failed to resume work within 72 hours. During a live broadcast, the governor expressed frustration, stating that salaries would be withheld for non-compliance.
“As far as I am not guilty, I do not owe you,” he said, instructing commissioners and heads of agencies to monitor attendance and promising table payment for days worked.
Nasarawa: Strike Halts Government Operations
In Nasarawa State, essential services were shut down in all 13 local government areas as workers complied with the strike. Ministries, agencies, and institutions were deserted, while NLC Chairman Ismaila Okoh lamented the lack of a formal agreement on the N70,500 minimum wage.
Deputy Governor Emmanuel Akabe assured that negotiations were in advanced stages and that the new wage would be implemented in December.
Kaduna: Government and Labour at Odds
In Kaduna, workers halted activities over the state government’s failure to implement consequential adjustments to the N72,000 minimum wage. The NLC and Trade Union Congress criticized the unilateral implementation of the wage without collective bargaining.
Governor Uba Sani’s spokesperson cited revenue limitations as a challenge to immediate adjustments, but labour leaders insisted the strike would continue until demands were met.
FCT: Area Councils Shut Down
In the FCT, local government workers locked area council offices in protest over non-implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage. The NLC and the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) vowed to continue the strike until their demands were addressed.
Zamfara: Workers Defy Strike Directive
In contrast, Zamfara State civil servants ignored the strike call, with most reporting to work. Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration reassured workers of its commitment to implementing the new wage following a verification exercise.
The ongoing strike underscores the growing tension between state governments and the NLC as they negotiate the implementation of the new national minimum wage amid economic challenges.
