The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has declared its unwavering commitment to ongoing labour protests despite an invitation from the Department of State Services (DSS).
In a press release issued Tuesday, and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Andrew Emelieze, the FWF affirmed its resolve to fight for workers’ rights, emphasizing that its members remain undeterred by intimidation.
The FWF, which has been leading the #FederalWorkersProtest and #OccupyFederalSecretariat movements, alleged that it was summoned by the DSS Director-General over the demonstrations.
The protests, which began on April 22, demand justice for federal workers, including the payment of a five-month wage award and an end to alleged exploitation.
“We have no regrets, and if we have to do it again, we will not hesitate,” said Comrade Emelieze, who was former Chairman of the Oyo State Council of the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
“We remain committed to freeing our people from servitude,” Emelieze stressed.
The group urged its members and the public to remain vigilant, hinting at potential repercussions. “We are informing all members, the media, and the general public to take note in case things take an unfavourable turn,” the statement read.
Despite the DSS summons, the FWF vowed to proceed with the protest, insisting that its demands are just and in the public interest. “Our voices must be heard. We shall keep on keeping on and never surrender,” Emelieze declared.
The FWF called on workers nationwide to stay resolute, reinforcing its stance that the protests will continue until their demands are met. The DSS has yet to issue an official statement regarding the meeting.
As tensions rise, observers await further developments, with labour activists and civil society groups closely monitoring the situation.
