The management of the National Assembly has warned staff members against any planned protest or attempt to disrupt plenary sessions as lawmakers resume sitting today after their annual recess.
In a circular signed by the Secretary of Human Resources and Staff Development, Mr Essien Eyo Essien, on behalf of the Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr Kamoru Ogunlana, management cautioned that any act of insubordination or disruption would attract severe disciplinary action.
Tension had been mounting among members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), who threatened to embark on industrial action over unresolved welfare and constitutional issues.
The circular directed all staff to disregard calls for protest or work stoppage, emphasising that participation in PASAN activities is voluntary.
“It must be emphasised that membership of PASAN or any union is entirely voluntary. Any staff member dissatisfied with the conduct of union affairs may freely withdraw their membership,” the statement read.
Management assured workers of their safety and security within the National Assembly Complex and reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and staff welfare, noting that several reforms had been introduced in the past seven months to improve efficiency and morale.
However, the warning comes amid renewed agitation by some “Concerned PASAN Members,” who, in a petition dated October 3, 2025, accused management of harassment, intimidation, and interference in union activities.
The petition, signed by M.C. Odo, Yusuf Mohammed Abiola, and Chinenye Peace Nda, also faulted delays in addressing salary shortfalls, non-remittance of statutory deductions, unpaid allowances, and failure to implement the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure and the National Assembly Service Pension Board Act, 2023.
The group further criticised management’s decision to recognise previously removed union executives, describing it as a breach of due process and internal democracy.