NLC slams FG’s “No Work, No Pay” Policy as cruel

By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the Federal Government’s enforcement of the “No Work, No Pay” policy, insisting that the principle should instead be “No Pay, No Work.”

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the declaration on Wednesday while addressing journalists after a visit to Governor Alex Otti in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State.

The stance followed a circular issued by the Federal Government on October 13, 2025, signed by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, directing vice-chancellors of federal universities to strictly enforce the policy against members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) currently on strike.

Ajaero described the directive as “illogical, unjust, and insensitive,” stressing that it was unreasonable to expect productivity from workers who were being denied their legitimate entitlements.

“The cause is non-payment, and the consequence is no work,” Ajaero said.

He argued that since 2009, the government had repeatedly failed to honour agreements reached with unions, which had led to persistent strikes across various sectors.

The NLC president advised the government to address the underlying issues rather than punishing affected workers, warning that continued neglect of the education sector was eroding Nigeria’s human capital base.

He disclosed that unions in the education sector would meet on Monday to discuss a collective response to what he termed the government’s “consistent neglect and insensitivity.”

“Threats to withhold salaries are driving teachers and lecturers abroad. Fixing education will strengthen the economy and ensure national stability,” he said.

On the Labour Party (LP) crisis, Ajaero reaffirmed that the NLC remained the legitimate owner of the party, as it held the original certificate of registration.

He dismissed those claiming ownership as “birds of passage” and announced plans to reorganise the party through ward, state, and national congresses.

Turning to Abia State, Ajaero commended Governor Otti’s administration for progress in workers’ welfare but called for urgent salary harmonisation.

He noted disparities where some junior officers reportedly earned as much as, or more than, their seniors due to incomplete salary adjustments.

Ajaero urged the state government to correct the anomalies promptly to promote fairness, proper promotion structure, and lasting industrial harmony among Abia workers. (NAN)