A wave of tension has gripped Nigeria’s National Assembly as the management sternly cautioned parliamentary staff against embarking on a planned protest or industrial action just as lawmakers resume plenary this week.
In a circular issued on Sunday, the management described the proposed demonstration by some members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) as unlawful and capable of disrupting legislative operations.
The warning, signed by Essien Eyo Essien, Secretary of Human Resources and Staff Development, on behalf of the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, urged workers to shun calls for strike and continue with their official duties.
“In light of recent developments, Management hereby directs all staff to ignore any calls for industrial action, including work-to-rule or picketing.
Your safety within the National Assembly Complex is guaranteed, and you are advised to go about your duties without fear or intimidation,” the circular read in part.
The management further cautioned that severe disciplinary measures await any staff member who disobeys the directive, emphasizing that union membership is voluntary and not compulsory.
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The warning came after a petition from a group calling themselves “Concerned PASAN Members”, who accused management of harassment, intimidation, and disregard for the union’s internal constitution.
In the letter dated October 3, 2025, and signed by M.C. Odo, Yusuf Mohammed Abiola, and Chinenye Peace Nda, the group alleged that staff were being punished for demanding transparency and accountability from union executives.
They claimed that management’s recognition of certain officials who had been removed by the congress was “a violation of due process and internal democracy,” insisting such interference undermines trust within the union.
Beyond union politics, the petitioners listed several unresolved welfare issues which they say have continued to affect staff morale. Their demands include:
Correction of salary discrepancies;
Full remittance of tax, pension, and housing deductions;
Implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS);
Payment of outstanding allowances including rent subsidy, leave grant, and hazard allowance;
Enforcement of the 40% peculiar allowance approved for federal workers in 2023;
Provision of vehicles for directors and staff buses for junior workers;
Comprehensive capacity development and training for staff
Implementation of the National Assembly Service Pension Board (Establishment) Act, 2023; and the Immediate application of the new national minimum wage.
The group warned that failure to address these concerns had deepened worker dissatisfaction and weakened productivity across departments.
The dispute is coming at a critical time, as both chambers of the National Assembly prepare to reconvene after recess. Analysts warn that the brewing tension could disrupt plenary sessions and delay the consideration of key national matters.
Observers say the timing of the agitation could test the leadership’s crisis management abilities, with the potential to affect legislative stability if not swiftly resolved.
However, despite the workers’ grievances, management maintained that it remains committed to improving staff welfare through administrative reforms and transparent processes.
“The Management remains dedicated to transparency, accountability, and the overall well-being of staff. Reforms have already been introduced to enhance efficiency and motivation,” the circular reassured.
The leadership also cited ongoing efforts to digitize administrative systems, restructure internal operations, and improve communication between management and employees.
Meanwhile, the “Concerned PASAN Members” insist their agitation is lawful and grounded in the association’s constitution and national labour regulations. They argue that the demand for audited accounts, adherence to financial transparency, and respect for internal democracy are basic union principles, not rebellion.
“This is not about rebellion; it’s about accountability and fairness,” one of the petitioners stated anonymously.
The unfolding drama at the National Assembly reflects a broader pattern of unrest across Nigeria’s public sector, where workers continue to protest unpaid entitlements, poor welfare, and administrative interference.
The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria has in the past shut down legislative activities over similar grievances. Labour analysts warn that failure to address the money root causes could lead to yet another disruption in the heart of Nigeria’s democracy.
For now, both sides appear to be on a collision course unless urgent dialogue is convened to restore calm before lawmakers settle into a new legislative session.
