NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CAUTIONS STAFF AGAINST DISRUPTING PLENARY OVER WELFARE ISSUES

October 6, 2025
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The National Assembly has cautioned its workers against taking any action that could disrupt legislative proceedings over their welfare demands, urging them to explore dialogue and due process in pressing for their entitlements.

The warning followed growing tension within the National Assembly bureaucracy after workers, under the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), threatened to embark on industrial action over alleged poor welfare conditions and unpaid allowances.

In a statement on Monday in Abuja, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Magaji Tambuwal, said the management was aware of the concerns raised by staff and was already engaging relevant authorities to address them. He, however, stressed that any attempt to disrupt plenary sessions or legislative business would be viewed as an act of sabotage against the institution.

While we acknowledge the importance of workers’ welfare and remain committed to addressing their grievances, it is essential that such issues are pursued within the confines of law and decorum. Any action that impedes the smooth running of parliamentary duties will not be tolerated,” Tambuwal stated.

He appealed to the leadership of PASAN to exercise restraint, assuring them that the National Assembly management was in constant communication with the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) and other relevant bodies to find lasting solutions to the challenges faced by staff.

Meanwhile, sources within the workers’ union confirmed that they had issued a seven-day ultimatum to the management to implement pending welfare agreements, including payment of backlog allowances, promotion arrears, and improved working conditions.

The union also accused the management of failing to honour previous memoranda of understanding signed with the staff representatives.

However, the Clerk maintained that the leadership of the National Assembly would not allow industrial disputes to derail legislative business, especially at a time when the legislature is considering key national bills and the 2026 budget proposals.

He reiterated the commitment of the management to peaceful engagement and mutual respect between workers and the institution, calling on staff to return to their duties as discussions continue.

Observers say the standoff underscores the need for a sustainable framework to handle welfare issues within the National Assembly, ensuring that industrial harmony is maintained without affecting the core functions of the legislature.

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