Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has given state workers a 72-hour deadline to return to work or face dismissal and immediate replacement.
The ultimatum follows a seven-day warning strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ebonyi over the non-implementation of a new minimum wage.
Addressing journalists at the Government House in Abakaliki on Monday, Nwifuru insisted that the state government is not indebted to workers and has already implemented a minimum wage of ₦75,000. According to the governor, salaries are being paid as agreed, and the strike is unwarranted.
“If you don’t go to work, not only will I not pay your salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours,” Nwifuru stated. “So far, I am not guilty of any wrongdoing. I am paying you what is due according to the agreement and the Constitution. If you fail to return to work, consider yourself dismissed.”
He further directed all commissioners, agency heads, and department supervisors to record attendance at their offices. Payment will reportedly be based on the number of days worked, with table payment set to ensure accountability.
Nwifuru emphasized his commitment to maintaining operational efficiency in the state and warned workers to reconsider their actions, asserting that any absence from duty would have consequences.
Be the first to comment