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NLC Responds to Ebonyi Governor’s Threats Against Striking Workers

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By Adenike Lawal

The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has strongly condemned recent threats by Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, regarding the ongoing strike by state workers.

In a statement issued on Monday night, Ajaero criticized the governor’s warning that workers must return to their duties within 72 hours or face termination and forfeiture of pay for the strike period.

Ajaero accused Governor Nwifuru of neglecting to implement the newly mandated minimum wage of N70,000, calling the inaction a blatant disregard for workers’ rights in the state.

The strike, led by the Ebonyi chapter of the NLC, is part of a larger national directive, urging action in states that have not yet adopted the new wage.

Initial reports suggest that the strike had a significant impact in Ebonyi on its first day, with a large number of civil servants absent from work. In response, Governor Nwifuru stated that his administration had already implemented the new minimum wage and claimed that no worker in the state was earning below this amount.

He also asserted that salary increases had been made for other categories of workers.

However, Ajaero dismissed these claims, pointing out that salary adjustments for other groups had been made without proper negotiations or agreements with labor unions.

Nwifuru reiterated that his administration was up to date with payments for salaries, pensions, and gratuities.

He further emphasized that he would not pay striking workers and would replace any employee who failed to return to work within the stipulated period.

In a press briefing, Governor Nwifuru underscored his commitment to maintaining order within government offices and instructed heads of departments to monitor attendance.

He added that payment would be based on actual days worked.

Ajaero, in his response, expressed disappointment with the state government’s refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue with labor representatives.

He characterized the governor’s threats as an attempt to undermine the workers’ lawful industrial action aimed at securing fair wages.

He emphasized that dialogue should be prioritized to resolve disputes peacefully, rather than resorting to intimidation.

Ajaero reiterated that strike action is a legal right for workers seeking justice under labor laws.

Despite the governor’s threats, Ajaero confirmed that the strike would continue until there is full compliance with the legal wage standards.

He called on all NLC affiliates, including those in the private sector, to show solidarity with the striking workers in Ebonyi.

Tensions remain high between labor leaders and state authorities as both sides maintain firm positions on wage implementation and workers’ rights.

 

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Hope Restored as Dayo Israel’s Ally Donates ₦8M for 8-Year-Old Girl’s Surgery

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By Patrick Idowu
A wave of relief and joy swept through the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, as an ally of Mr. Dayo Israel, the newly appointed Chairman of the hospital, donated ₦8 million to fund the open-heart surgery of an eight-year-old girl in dire need of medical intervention.

The generous donation was made by Mr. Ola Ayilara, the Chief Executive Officer of LANDWEY Investment, during a courtesy visit to the hospital.

In addition to covering the child’s surgery costs, Ayilara pledged to construct and maintain a new laboratory facility for the medical center, further demonstrating his commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.

Commending the act of philanthropy, Mr. Dayo Israel described the donation as a remarkable gesture of giving back to society.

He reiterated the new hospital board’s dedication to revitalizing FMC Abeokuta, ensuring improved healthcare services and better medical outcomes for patients.

The timely intervention not only secures a second chance at life for the young girl but also underscores the impact of corporate social responsibility in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

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U.S. Embassy in Abuja, Lagos to Close for Presidents’ Day

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By Abaire Olanlesi 

The U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos will be closed on Monday, February 17, 2025, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, the U.S. diplomatic mission confirmed the temporary closure, noting that normal operations would resume on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

Presidents’ Day, celebrated annually on the third Monday of February, honors past and present U.S. leaders. While the embassy and consulate will suspend routine operations, essential services will remain available through emergency contact channels.

The U.S. mission advised Nigerians seeking visas or consular assistance to plan their visits accordingly, as regular consular services will resume after the holiday.

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Bishop Wale Oke Re-elected as PFN President, CAN Commends Leadership

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By Njoku Chijioke 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has extended its congratulations to Bishop Wale Oke following his re-election as the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

His re-election was confirmed during the 18th Biennial Conference of the PFN, held in Abuja on February 11, 2025.

In a statement, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, lauded Bishop Oke’s leadership, describing his re-election as a testament to the confidence and trust vested in him by the Pentecostal community.

He commended Oke’s humility and accessibility, qualities that have distinguished his service to the Church.

Bishop Oke’s first term saw notable achievements, including fostering unity among Pentecostal

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