The Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ebonyi State has urged political parties and aspirants preparing for the 2027 general elections to make workers’ welfare a central part of their campaign promises, warning that organised labour will only support leaders who demonstrate genuine commitment to improving the lives of workers.
The Chairman of the TUC in Ebonyi, Chidi Igboji, made the call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki on Tuesday.
Igboji said the era of workers voting for leaders who neglect their welfare was over, stressing that employees deserve governments that prioritise better working conditions, prompt payment of salaries and pensions, career advancement, and comprehensive welfare programmes.
According to him, organised labour will closely assess candidates based on their commitment to policies that guarantee the timely payment of salaries and other entitlements, effective pension administration, promotions, and improved welfare for workers.
“We will support leaders who place workers’ welfare at the heart of their policies and ensure the prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements.
“The time of supporting leaders who pay little attention to the wellbeing of workers has ended. Anyone seeking our votes must prove a genuine commitment to the welfare of the workforce or risk losing our support,” he said.
The labour leader also praised Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for what he described as worker-friendly policies introduced since assuming office.
He highlighted the payment of pensions, promotion of workers, the annual ₦100,000 Christmas gift to civil servants, and other welfare initiatives as clear evidence of the governor’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and retirees.
“We commend Governor Nwifuru for consistently paying pensions, promoting workers, and implementing policies that have enhanced our wellbeing since he came into office.
“These initiatives have boosted workers’ morale, increased productivity, and strengthened confidence in government,” Igboji added.
He further called on all political office seekers ahead of the 2027 elections to recognise workers as a vital force in Nigeria’s democracy by placing their welfare at the forefront of governance and policy implementation.
