Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service on Wednesday staged a protest at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja over what they described as poor welfare conditions, intimidation and prolonged unfair labour practices.
The demonstration took place at the FCT-IRS headquarters located in Area 7, Garki, and was marked by a heavy security presence as aggrieved staff demanded urgent action from management.
The protesting workers accused the agency’s leadership of creating an atmosphere of fear while allegedly suppressing employees’ rights and concerns.
Speaking during the protest, some staff members said repeated meetings and negotiations with management had failed to produce meaningful results, forcing them to resort to peaceful picketing.
According to the workers, the protest is scheduled to continue from May 13 to May 15, with plans to begin an indefinite strike on May 18 if their demands remain unresolved.
Among their key demands are the immediate release of promotion results and promotion letters, a 300 per cent salary increase, improved healthcare coverage and the introduction of a staff housing scheme.
The workers also called for the disengagement of seconded staff members and their return to their parent organisations.
Some protesters further alleged that management had attempted to intimidate workers participating in the protest through threats and disciplinary queries.
They claimed that after initial intimidation efforts failed, senior officials allegedly began reaching out privately to persuade staff members to abandon the protest action.
The workers also noted the presence of security personnel around the headquarters during the demonstration, describing it as an attempt to discourage participation.
As of the time of reporting, the management of the FCT-IRS had not publicly responded to the allegations raised by the protesting workers.