By Peace Erewunmi

Civil servants under the Federal Workers Forum (FWF) have issued a strong warning to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Dr. Taiwo Oyedele, demanding the immediate payment of outstanding entitlements or risk nationwide industrial action. Reports indicate that the workers are aggrieved over delays in the implementation and payment of approved welfare benefits.

In a statement issued by the Forum, the workers expressed frustration over what they described as prolonged neglect of their welfare despite repeated assurances from the Federal Government. They argued that the rising cost of living has placed enormous financial pressure on public servants, making the prompt payment of salaries, allowances and other entitlements more critical than ever.

The Forum warned that if the outstanding issues are not resolved within the stipulated period, civil servants across ministries, departments and agencies may embark on coordinated protests and other lawful actions to press home their demands. According to the workers, the warning is intended to draw the government’s attention to their plight before the situation escalates.

The workers also urged the Federal Government to engage labour representatives constructively and fulfil all financial commitments already approved for public servants. They maintained that timely payment of workers’ benefits would improve morale, productivity and confidence in the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

As of the time of reporting, there was no official response from the Federal Ministry of Finance or the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms regarding the demands made by the workers. The situation is expected to remain under close watch as labour leaders await the government’s response.