The management of the National Assembly has issued a stern warning to parliamentary staff against proceeding with a planned protest and picketing of the complex, as lawmakers resume plenary today (Tuesday).
The warning follows threats by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) to embark on industrial action over unresolved welfare and constitutional concerns.
In an internal circular signed by Essien Eyo Essien, Secretary of Human Resources and Staff Development, on behalf of the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, staff were cautioned that any attempt to disrupt legislative proceedings would attract severe disciplinary consequences.
“Any staff member, whether an executive or regular member, who is dissatisfied with the conduct of union affairs may freely withdraw their membership in accordance with established rules,” the statement read.
The circular described union membership as voluntary and instructed staff to ignore any calls for industrial action, including picketing or “work-to-rule”. It assured employees of their safety and urged them to continue their duties without fear.
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The management also directed the group behind the protest—identified as “Concerned PASAN Members”—to stand down or face sanctions.
This comes after the group sent a petition on 3 October to the Clerk, accusing the management of harassing union members and interfering with PASAN’s internal governance. The petition, signed by M.C. Odo, Yusuf Mohammed Abiola, and Chinenye Peace Nda, alleged that union executives were being threatened for demanding financial transparency and adherence to the union’s constitution.
They cited the failure to present audited accounts, budget proposals, and fulfil statutory financial obligations, and criticised the recognition of executive officers previously removed by the PASAN Congress.
The group also raised a range of welfare-related demands, including:
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Correction of salary shortfalls
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Remittance of taxes, pension, and housing contributions
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Full implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure
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Payment of outstanding allowances (rent, leave, hazard, medical)
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Enforcement of the 40% peculiar allowance approved in 2023
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Provision of official vehicles and staff buses
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A clear training and capacity development framework
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Implementation of the National Assembly Service Pension Board Act (2023)
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Immediate application of the new minimum wage
Observers have noted that the handling of the staff grievances could significantly impact legislative business, with the threat of disruption looming as plenary resumes.
