Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has issued a stern warning to striking workers, threatening to replace any employee who fails to resume work within 72 hours. The governor’s statement comes in response to the statewide strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the non-payment of the agreed N70,000 minimum wage.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abakaliki, the state capital, Governor Nwifuru directed all heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to open attendance registers and assured that only workers present at their duty posts would receive their salaries.
“If you don’t report to work, not only will I withhold your salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours,” the governor declared. He emphasized that salaries would be calculated based on the number of days worked, warning that those who refuse to resume should consider their employment with the state terminated.
The strike, which began on December 1, follows a directive from the NLC’s national headquarters targeting states that failed to implement the agreed minimum wage and associated adjustments. The Ebonyi chapter of the NLC accused Governor Nwifuru of unilaterally determining wage adjustments without engaging in the required negotiations.
The NLC argued that while the governor claims to have complied with the minimum wage law by paying no worker below N70,000, the law also mandates consequential adjustments for other grades of workers through collective bargaining. The union described the governor’s approach as a violation of established labour practices.
Governor Nwifuru dismissed the NLC’s claims, insisting that the state has met its obligations under the minimum wage law. He maintained that the wage adjustments made by his administration align with the law and emphasized that the government owes no worker.
He also expressed frustration over the NLC’s decision to strike, accusing the union of misleading its members and ignoring various welfare packages provided by his administration.
“I am not owing any worker. We have implemented salary increases, and if you choose not to work, the state government will not tolerate it,” the governor stated.
As the strike cripples operations at the state secretariat, tension remains high. The NLC has not backed down from its position, insisting on proper negotiations, while Governor Nwifuru has made it clear that he will enforce strict measures to maintain government operations.
The coming days will determine whether the standoff escalates or if a resolution can be reached through dialogue between the state government and the NLC.
