The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria in Ebonyi State has urged political parties and candidates preparing for the 2027 general elections to make workers’ welfare a major part of their manifestos.
The Ebonyi State Chairman of the TUC, Mr Chidi Igboji, made the call in an interview in Abakaliki on Tuesday.
Igboji said organised labour would no longer support political leaders who fail to protect the interests of workers and pensioners.
According to him, workers deserve leaders who are genuinely committed to improving their living conditions, workplace welfare and career growth.
He said candidates seeking the support of workers must show clear plans for prompt salary payment, regular promotions, pension administration and other welfare programmes.
Igboji warned that the era of giving political support to leaders who pay little attention to workers’ wellbeing was over.
He said the workforce would assess candidates based on their policies and past records on labour-related matters.
The TUC chairman said politicians who want workers’ votes in 2027 must place the welfare of employees at the centre of governance.
He added that workers would support only leaders who demonstrate sincerity in addressing salaries, allowances, pensions and general conditions of service.
Igboji also commended Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for what he described as worker-friendly policies since assuming office.
He said the governor had taken steps that improved the welfare of workers and pensioners in the state.
The labour leader listed pension payments, workers’ promotions and the annual ₦100,000 Christmas gift to workers as some of the measures that had encouraged the workforce.
According to him, such policies help boost productivity and strengthen workers’ confidence in government.
Igboji said consistent attention to workers’ welfare creates a more motivated civil service and supports better service delivery.
He urged political office seekers across the country to understand that workers remain an important voting bloc in Nigeria’s democracy.
The TUC chairman said the labour movement would continue to demand policies that protect employees, retirees and their families.
He called on political parties to move beyond campaign promises and present practical welfare plans that can improve the lives of workers.
Igboji said the 2027 elections should provide an opportunity for workers to demand accountability from candidates seeking public office.
He maintained that any government that values workers would also strengthen public institutions, improve productivity and promote social stability.
The Ebonyi TUC said workers’ welfare would remain a major issue in its engagement with political actors ahead of the next general elections.
