The management of the National Assembly has cautioned parliamentary workers against planned protests and picketing as lawmakers resume plenary on Tuesday.
The warning followed threats by some members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) to embark on industrial action over unresolved welfare and constitutional issues. In a circular issued on Sunday, the Secretary of Human Resources and Staff Development, Essien Eyo Essien, on behalf of the Clerk, Kamoru Ogunlana, warned that any disruption of legislative activities would attract severe disciplinary measures.
Essien emphasized that membership of PASAN is voluntary and any staff dissatisfied with union affairs may withdraw according to established rules. He added that the current management, within seven months in office, has implemented reforms to improve efficiency and staff morale. “Staff are instructed to ignore calls for industrial action, including work-to-rule or unlawful picketing. Your safety and security within the National Assembly Complex are assured,” the circular stated.
The advisory follows a letter from some “Concerned PASAN Members” dated October 3, alleging harassment, intimidation, and management interference in union affairs. The group cited constitutional provisions requiring annual budgets, audited accounts, and adherence to statutory obligations, claiming management’s actions undermine internal democracy.
The petition also raised broader welfare concerns, including unpaid allowances, salary shortfalls, remittance of statutory deductions, full implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure, provision of official vehicles, staff buses, training templates, and application of the new minimum wage.
Observers note that how the National Assembly management addresses these grievances could influence whether legislative business proceeds smoothly or faces disruption, underscoring the need for dialogue and timely resolution of staff concerns.