Federal Workers Cry Foul Over Harsh Economic Policies, Demand Immediate Intervention

In a dramatic online meeting held on October 21, 2024, the Federal Workers Forum (FWF) expressed deep frustration over the economic hardships faced by federal employees, urging President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of millions.

The meeting, which involved federal workers from across the country, revealed a concerning state of despair as hunger and financial strain escalate among workers.

Comrade Andrew Emelieze, National Coordinator of the FWF, conveyed the urgent message to the President, stating, “Nigerians are dying of hunger. The tough policies you are implementing have brought untold hardship to the Nigerian people.”

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He emphasised the dire reality that many citizens are now relying on loans just to get by, with the current economic landscape forcing numerous individuals into begging.

The forum highlighted the dramatic rise in fuel prices, which has surged from ₦187 to ₦1300 since the removal of the petrol subsidy.

This increase has severely impacted the cost of living, leading to soaring prices for essential goods.

The FWF called the President’s decision to raise the national minimum wage to ₦70,000 a “ridiculous” proposal, emphasizing that the additional ₦40,000 offered to workers is grossly inadequate in light of the economic crisis.

“We feel cheated,” Emelieze declared. “How can the price of petrol increase by over 600% while only ₦40,000 is added to our salaries?” The forum is demanding the immediate payment of outstanding wages and allowances, including years of promotion arrears and duty tour allowances.

The communiqué further urged for the re-evaluation of the new national minimum wage, arguing that it should reflect a living wage standard.

Emelieze criticized the government’s delay in salary payments, stating that workers can hardly survive on their take-home pay for a week.

The FWF has warned that without swift action from the President, they will consider a vote of no confidence against him and engage in protests to advocate for their rights.

“We have endured this pain long enough; it is time for you to act,” Emelieze asserted.

The letter has been widely disseminated, copied to key government officials, labor organizations, and the media, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.