Seven-Day Ultimatum In Cross River State Heightens Labour Tension

CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – The seven-day ultimatum in Cross River State takes effect from February 3, 2026, according to a letter addressed to Governor Bassey Otu.

Organised Labour warned that failure to resolve all outstanding issues within the deadline would compel workers to commence an indefinite strike action.

The letter, dated January 30, 2026, was jointly endorsed by leaders of the NLC, TUC, and the Joint Negotiating Council.

Government offices, including the Governor’s Office, acknowledged receipt of the ultimatum between February 2 and February 3, official stamps confirmed.

Labour Recalls Ignored Ultimatums and Broken Commitments

Labour leaders recalled issuing a 21-day ultimatum to the government on July 17, 2025, followed by a 14-day notice on November 26, 2025.

They stated that the government ignored both notices, forcing organised labour to consider industrial action at the time.

However, labour suspended action after interventions by Deputy Governor Peter Odey and other senior officials, according to the letter.

The Secretary to the State Government, Professor A. Owan Eno, and the Head of Service reportedly assured labour of prompt transmission of demands.

Organised Labour said those assurances created expectations of resolution that never materialised.

Disputed Policies Trigger Fresh Labour Anger

Labour leaders accused the government of introducing policies that undermined earlier agreements and worsened the industrial climate in the state.

They cited attempts to abrogate the existing Local Government Law as amended No. 2 of 2025 as deeply provocative.

The letter also referenced moves affecting the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act No. 18 of 2022.

According to labour, these actions contradicted prior understandings and eroded trust built during negotiations.

Unresolved Demands Behind the Seven-Day Ultimatum in Cross River State

Organised Labour listed several unresolved issues forming the basis of the seven-day ultimatum in Cross River State.

They include salary disparities between state and local government workers, which labour described as unjust and demoralising.

Labour also demanded immediate implementation of pending promotions across ministries, departments, and agencies.

The letter highlighted delays in salary payments to local government workers as a recurring and destabilising problem.

Pension harmonisation featured prominently, with labour accusing the government of neglecting retired workers’ welfare.

Labour Raises Transparency and Welfare Concerns

Labour further criticised the non-involvement of unions in government programmes affecting workers’ interests and conditions of service.

Health sector agitations were listed among unresolved issues, reflecting persistent dissatisfaction among medical and allied workers.

Organised Labour also demanded payment of way-in allowances for radio, television, and theatre arts workers.

• Shettima Visits Kwara Over Terrorist Attack That Claimed Over 100
• Family Cries Out, Demands Justice For Murdered UNIBEN Microbiology Undergraduate Student Raped, Murdered In Church After Six Years
• “I have not been the best daddy”– 2Baba opens up about parenting struggles
• Hon Charles Idahosa The Audacious Odyssey — By Dr Peter Uwaibi Esq
• 2027 Election: Results Transmission and the Rise and Rise of Populism in Nigeria — By Elempe Dele

They raised concerns over the contributory pension scheme, calling for reforms and clarity in its administration.

The Accountant-General’s refusal to disclose the salary template used for paying state workers was described as unacceptable.

Judiciary and Local Government Workers Join the Dispute

The ultimatum also referenced welfare agitations by magistrates serving in the state judiciary.

Labour leaders warned that unresolved judicial welfare matters could undermine morale and justice delivery in the state.

They further opposed plans to disengage newly employed staff under the Unified Local Government Service.

According to labour, such plans contradict employment agreements and threaten livelihoods across local councils.

Labour Issues Clear Strike Threat

Organised Labour disclosed that it reviewed its engagement with government during a meeting held on January 27, 2026.

Truth live news reports that after what it described as extensive deliberations, labour resolved to issue a final ultimatum.

The unions stated unequivocally that failure to resolve all issues within seven days would trigger an indefinite strike.

The letter read that labour “will be forced to embark on an indefinite strike action” if the deadline lapses unresolved.

Labour Appeals to Governor’s ‘People’s First’ Agenda

Despite the strong language, labour leaders reaffirmed their commitment to industrial peace and the wellbeing of Cross River State.

They expressed confidence that Governor Bassey Otu would act in line with his “People’s First” leadership philosophy.

The unions urged the governor to treat the ultimatum with urgency, seriousness, and sincerity.

They described prompt action as necessary to preserve social stability and economic productivity statewide.

Government Yet to Respond Officially

As of the time of filing this report, the Cross River State Government had not issued an official response to the ultimatum.

Attempts to obtain comments from the Commissioner for Information were unsuccessful.

However, a senior government source, who requested anonymity, said discussions were ongoing behind the scenes.

The source stated that government remained committed to dialogue and avoiding industrial disruption.

Labour Leaders Sign Ultimatum

The ultimatum was jointly signed by Comrade Gregory Olayi, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in the state.

Comrade Monday Ogbodum, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, also endorsed the document.

Other signatories included Comrade Raymond Akan, Chairman of the Joint Negotiating Council.
Secretaries Odong Bassey Eke of the NLC and Ken Bassey of the TUC appended their signatures.

Implications of a Strike in Cross River State
Analysts warn that an indefinite strike could cripple public services, including healthcare, education, and local government administration.

They note that previous nationwide labour actions have disrupted economic activity and public confidence.

Observers urge both parties to return to negotiations to avert escalation.

For now, attention remains fixed on the seven-day ultimatum in Cross River State and the government’s next move.