Federal Workers Reject N100,000 Minimum Wage Proposal, Give Tinubu 30-Day Ultimatum

The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has rejected proposals for a new national minimum wage of N100,000, insisting that the amount is insufficient to address the economic realities confronting workers across Nigeria.

The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a meeting and opinion poll convened to assess the impact of economic hardship, insecurity and labour-related issues on federal workers.

The communiqué was jointly signed by the forum’s National Coordinator, Andrew Emelieze, National Secretary, Ayo Ogundele and National Mobilisation Officer, Aminu Yerima.

According to the forum, the implementation of the existing N70,000 minimum wage has failed to significantly improve workers’ welfare.

The group alleged that the structure of implementation substantially reduced the benefits expected by workers and did little to offset rising inflation and living costs.

It also raised concerns over the alleged non-payment of outstanding wage awards and the failure to implement a promised 40 per cent peculiar allowance for eligible workers.

The workers’ body described the N100,000 proposal reportedly being discussed by some governors as unrealistic and disconnected from prevailing economic conditions.

“To us, this is the height of hypocrisy,” the communiqué stated.

“These same governors who argued they could not afford N70,000 are now proposing N100,000.”

The forum argued that any future wage review should be based on current economic realities and should emerge through proper negotiation involving labour representatives and government stakeholders.

Beyond wages, the workers expressed alarm over the worsening security situation across the country.

The forum said kidnappings, killings and attacks on schools had created widespread fear among citizens and workers alike.

According to the group, insecurity has reached levels where many Nigerians now feel vulnerable both at work and in their communities.

The forum urged government authorities to intensify efforts to rescue kidnapped victims, improve security architecture and restore public confidence.

It also called on the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress to consider stronger industrial actions, including the possibility of a nationwide strike.

The workers additionally advocated the introduction of a Cost of Living Allowance to cushion the impact of inflation and rising living expenses.

In what appears to be a significant escalation of labour pressure, the forum issued a 30-day ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu to address insecurity, economic hardship and workers’ welfare concerns.

The group warned that continued inaction could further deepen public dissatisfaction and worsen socio-economic conditions across the country.

“We have witnessed more than enough hardship, uncertainty and insecurity,” the forum stated.

“It is time for decisive action that restores hope and confidence among Nigerian workers and citizens.”