Members of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) staged a protest at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja on Monday over unpaid allowances and emoluments.
The protesters, dressed in red T-shirts, gathered at the ministry's main entrance, causing significant disruption to normal activities. The demonstration, led by TUC President Festus Osifo, resulted in staff vehicles being parked along the roadside, worsening traffic congestion in the area.
Eyewitnesses reported that TUC General Secretary Nuhu Toro was present at the scene but declined to provide specific details about the protest. One ministry employee, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated: "You can see that our office has been blocked. We don't even know the full reason yet."
Personnel from the FCT Police Command were deployed to maintain law and order during the demonstration. As of the time of reporting, the Ministry of Finance had not issued an official statement regarding the protest or the specific demands being made by the union.
This incident follows a similar protest held recently at the same location by members of the Nigerian Legion over unpaid pensions, highlighting ongoing concerns about financial obligations to workers and retirees by the federal government.
The TUC, one of Nigeria's largest labor organizations, represents thousands of workers across various sectors. The union has previously advocated for improved working conditions and timely payment of entitlements for its members.
Further developments on this situation are expected as negotiations between the TUC leadership and ministry officials potentially unfold in the coming days.