The Federal Workers Forum (FWF) has expressed appreciation to members of the public, civil society organisations, and legal practitioners for their support during the recent detention of its National Coordinator, Comrade Andrew Emelieze, by the Department of State Services (DSS).
In a statement signed by Emelieze and other top officials of the Forum, the group singled out human rights lawyers Barrister Femi Falana (SAN), Barrister Femi Aborishade, Barrister Akinola, and others from Abope Chambers for their legal assistance, which contributed to securing Emelieze’s release.
“We acknowledge the tireless efforts of all members of civil society, our fellow workers, and citizens of Nigeria who rallied for the release of Comrade Andrew Emelieze from DSS detention,” the statement read.
While celebrating the release of their leader, the Forum stressed that their advocacy for workers’ rights and better living conditions was far from over. They vowed to continue demanding the payment of legitimate wages, outstanding awards, and arrears owed to federal workers.
The Forum also used the opportunity to criticize the current economic realities, noting that the national minimum wage is no longer adequate to meet the basic needs of Nigerian families in light of rising inflation and the cost of living.
They urged the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act swiftly to address the worsening economic hardship faced by citizens and to prioritise the well-being of workers.
