Tension is building in Benue State following a 14-day ultimatum issued by the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) over unresolved salary arrears and welfare concerns. The union warns that patience among workers is wearing thin after months of uncertainty.

Tension is rising across Benue State as the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to authorities over lingering salary arrears, staff screening delays, and unresolved welfare issues affecting local government workers.

The union’s directive follows growing frustration among workers who, according to sources within the system, have endured months of unpaid wages, repeated verification exercises, and administrative delays without clear resolution.

A key concern is the ongoing screening process reportedly impacting a significant number of workers. While such exercises are typically aimed at improving accountability and eliminating irregularities, critics argue that prolonged delays have left legitimate employees unpaid and financially strained.

Beyond salary issues, workers have also raised concerns about delayed pension payments, stalled promotions, and the non-reinstatement of staff previously disengaged from service. These unresolved matters continue to deepen dissatisfaction within the workforce.

The ultimatum signals a potential breakdown in trust between workers and government authorities. Labour actions, observers note, are often considered a last resort, indicating that patience among affected employees may be nearing its limit.

For residents, the implications extend beyond the workforce. Local government employees play a vital role in grassroots administration, healthcare support, sanitation services, and community development. Prolonged welfare challenges could disrupt service delivery across communities.

As the 14-day deadline approaches, attention will be on whether dialogue between the union and government yields a resolution or if the situation escalates into industrial action.

By Benue Info-pedia