Nigerian workers storm Finance Ministry over unpaid allowances

Tensions flared in the heart of Abuja on Monday as members of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) staged a dramatic protest at the Federal Ministry of Finance, demanding the immediate payment of allowances allegedly withheld since January 2025.

Dressed in striking red T-shirts and caps, the disgruntled workers blocked the main entrance of the ministry’s headquarters, effectively halting vehicular access and drawing attention from passersby and civil servants.

Brandishing bold placards with messages such as “Wale Edun, where is our allowance?”, “Stop the delay and pay us now,” and “Let the poor breathe,” the protesters directed their frustration at Minister of Finance Wale Edun, whom they accused of delaying the release of crucial payment files.

“We have waited long enough,” said one protester, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “This is money we’ve worked for since January. We won’t back down until it’s paid.”