“If You Don’t Return to Work in 72 Hours, Consider Yourself Sacked” – Ebonyi Governor Warns Striking Workers

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, has issued a stern warning to striking workers, giving them a 72-hour ultimatum to return to work or face immediate dismissal and replacement. This directive follows a seven-day warning strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ebonyi State over the alleged non-implementation of the new minimum wage.

Speaking to journalists on Monday at the new Government House in Centenary City, Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru defended the state government’s actions, insisting that workers had no valid reason for the strike. He stated that the government had approved and begun paying the N75,000 minimum wage and assured that no salaries were owed to workers.

“If you didn’t go to work, not only that I will not pay you salary, but I will replace you within 72 hours in your office,” Nwifuru warned. “If I don’t see you in your office, consider yourself sacked. So far, I am not guilty; I am not owing you. I am paying you what is supposed to be paid.”

He emphasized that any worker who failed to resume within the stipulated time would be removed from payroll and replaced. To enforce compliance, Nwifuru directed all commissioners, agency heads, and the state’s Civil Service Commission to ensure attendance records are strictly monitored, with table payment adopted for disbursing salaries.

“I have called the state chairman of the Civil Service Commission,” the governor said. “I have directed all commissioners to go to their offices. All agencies and government departments must be in their offices to record attendance. Those who show up for work will be paid based on the days they worked. If you don’t want to come to work, you will forget about the state government.”