Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, in a bold response to a statewide workers’ strike, gave civil servants a strict 72-hour deadline to return to their jobs or face immediate termination.
The announcement comes amid a seven-day warning strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ebonyi State branch, over disputes surrounding the implementation of the minimum wage.
Speaking to journalists on Monday at the Government House in Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru stated emphatically that the state government does not owe its workers. He highlighted that a N75,000 minimum wage had been approved and is already being disbursed.
“If you don’t go to work, not only that I will not pay you salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours in your office,” he said, reiterating his firm stance on the matter.
The strike, which began on Sunday, was organized to press for the enforcement of the newly adjusted minimum wage. Despite the workers’ claims, the governor insisted that the state was in full compliance with legal and financial obligations. He accused the striking workers of acting in bad faith, warning that their continued absence would result in dismissal and replacement.
Governor Nwifuru also instructed commissioners, heads of agencies, and department heads to monitor attendance and document the presence of workers in their offices. He declared that salaries would be paid only to employees who reported to work, adding that payments would be based on the number of days worked.
