Less than a day into a strike by workers in several states over the non-implementation of the new national minimum wage, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru threatened to terminate any employee who does not return to work. In a broadcast on Monday, he announced that salaries would be withheld and that striking workers would be replaced if they did not resume within 72 hours. Meanwhile, Nigeria Labour Congress Chairman in Ebonyi, Prof. Oguguo Egwu, criticized the governor for his indifferent attitude toward the struggles of civil servants, labeling their situation as concerning. Nwifuru expressed frustration with the strike and the NLC’s leadership, asserting that he has met his obligations to the workers.
He stated, “If you do not return to work, not only will I withhold your salary, but I will also replace you in your position within 72 hours.”He said, “If you are not in your office, I am not at fault. I am fulfilling my obligations and paying what is due according to our agreements and the constitution. If you do not report to work within 72 hours, I will replace you. I have already contacted the chairman of the Civil Service Commission.
“I have instructed all commissioners to be present in their offices, and all agencies and departments must also report. We will be recording attendance, and only those who come to work will be compensated based on the number of days they fulfill their duties. If you choose not to come to work, you can forget about receiving anything from the state government.”