Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has issued a stern warning to workers participating in the ongoing Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) strike, declaring that any employee who fails to report to work within 72 hours will have their salary withheld and face replacement.
Speaking during a live broadcast from the Government House in Centenary City, Abakaliki, on Monday, the governor expressed dissatisfaction with the strike, citing the state’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
According to Governor Nwifuru, the state government has already implemented a minimum wage of ₦75,000 for workers in Grade Levels 1 and 2, along with a ₦40,000 salary increase for those in Grade Levels 3 to 17.
He stressed that the government is fulfilling its obligations and sees no justification for the strike.
“If you don’t report to work, not only will your salary be stopped, but you will also be replaced within 72 hours,” the governor stated.
“I am not owing workers, and I have paid what is due according to agreements and constitutional provisions. If you fail to return to your office, I will take action.”
Governor Nwifuru added that he has instructed all commissioners and heads of government agencies to record attendance at their respective offices.
Workers who attend their duties will be paid based on the number of days they work, while those who remain absent should “forget about state government salaries,” he declared.
The NLC’s national leadership had recently called for an indefinite strike in Ebonyi and other states that have not yet implemented the New National Minimum Wage.