Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to striking workers in the state to resume their duties or face immediate dismissal.
The governor, who expressed strong disapproval of the ongoing industrial action by the Ebonyi chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), also threatened to replace any dismissed worker promptly.
The NLC had initiated a seven-day warning strike on Sunday, citing the state government’s alleged failure to implement the newly approved minimum wage of ₦75,000.
However, addressing journalists at the New Government House in Centenary City, Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru firmly refuted these claims, insisting that the state is not indebted to any worker and has already begun paying the approved minimum wage.
“The state government is not owing any worker,” Nwifuru declared. “We have approved ₦75,000 as the minimum wage, and we have started paying it. I am abiding by the Constitution and agreements. I owe no one, and the strike action is baseless.”
The governor criticized the strike as unnecessary and warned of strict consequences for continued absenteeism.
“If you don’t return to work, not only will I withhold your salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours,” he stated. “If you are not in your office, consider yourself sacked. The days of idle threats are over; this government is taking decisive action.”
To ensure compliance, Governor Nwifuru directed the state chairman of the Civil Service Commission and all commissioners to monitor attendance across government offices.
“All departments, agencies, and ministries must be fully operational. Staff attendance will be recorded, and only those who report for duty will be paid, based on table payment,” he explained.
The governor stressed that payment will now be calculated according to the number of days worked.
“You will be paid for the days you come to work. If you refuse to resume your duties, you forfeit your salary and your position in the civil service. This is a government that values productivity and discipline.”
Governor Nwifuru’s ultimatum has sparked mixed reactions among workers and residents.
While some commend the government for its firm stance on accountability, others view the threat of mass dismissal as harsh and counterproductive.
The ongoing strike underscores the delicate relationship between the state government and organized labor, with workers demanding assurances on policy implementation and the governor maintaining that his administration has fulfilled its obligations.
It remains to be seen whether the NLC will yield to the governor’s ultimatum or intensify its demands for improved conditions.
