The management of Nigeria’s National Assembly has issued a stern warning to parliamentary staff threatening industrial action over unresolved welfare and constitutional grievances, cautioning that any disruption of legislative proceedings as plenary resumes on Tuesday will attract severe disciplinary consequences.

The warning, delivered via a circular signed by Essien Eyo Essien, Secretary of Human Resources and Staff Development, on behalf of Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, comes in response to threats by members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) to protest and picket the Assembly complex.

“It must be emphasised that membership of PASAN or any union is entirely voluntary,” the circular stated, urging staff to disregard calls for strike action, including work-to-rule or unlawful picketing. The management assured employees of their safety and encouraged them to continue their duties without fear or intimidation.

The circular follows a petition dated October 3 from a group of “Concerned PASAN Members,” who accused the Assembly’s leadership of harassment and intimidation, citing violations of the union’s constitution and neglect of long-standing welfare issues. These include salary shortfalls, unremitted statutory deductions, non-implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure, and unpaid allowances for rent, leave, hazard, and medicals.

The petition also demanded enforcement of the National Assembly Service Pension Board Act (2023), provision of official vehicles and staff buses, and application of the new minimum wage with its consequential adjustments.

The group further criticised the recognition of union executives previously removed by Congress, calling it a breach of internal democracy and due process.