Parliamentary Workers Refute Plan to Picket National Assembly
The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) has officially distanced itself from a planned protest by a group of self-identified "concerned staff" within the National Assembly, urging all legitimate staff to remain at their duty posts and uphold professionalism.
The said group, which claims to represent aggrieved employees, had earlier announced its intention to stage a peaceful protest over what it described as unresolved welfare and constitutional issues affecting staff in the legislative arm of government. The protest was reportedly scheduled to draw attention to lingering staff grievances, though details remained vague.
However, in a statement issued on Monday, PASAN Chairman, Comrade Sunday Sabiyyi, made it clear that the association has no affiliation with the planned demonstration and has not sanctioned any industrial action or protest at this time.
“We wish to categorically state that PASAN is not part of any planned protest or demonstration within the National Assembly. We urge all our members to disregard any call for protest and continue to carry out their duties diligently,” Sabiyyi said.
Most Staff Issues Already Addressed — PASAN
Sabiyyi noted that many of the welfare concerns previously raised by staff have already been addressed by the National Assembly management, and additional issues are being looked into by a committee set up to engage with stakeholders.
“The leadership of the National Assembly has shown commitment to improving staff welfare. A joint committee is already in place to resolve pending issues in a structured and peaceful manner,” he added.
Call for Professional Conduct
PASAN emphasized the importance of preserving the institutional integrity and public image of the National Assembly, warning staff against participating in unauthorized protests that could damage the credibility of the legislative body or be politically misinterpreted.
“We must not allow the image of the National Assembly to be dragged into disrepute by the actions of a few individuals acting outside due process,” the PASAN chairman cautioned.
He further reiterated that the association remains committed to engaging constructively with the National Assembly leadership through dialogue and negotiation, which he described as the most effective way to address staff concerns without resorting to confrontation or public disorder.
PASAN’s Track Record and Ongoing Engagements
PASAN, which represents parliamentary staff across legislative institutions in Nigeria, has historically maintained a working relationship with the management of the National Assembly, leveraging that rapport to secure improved conditions for workers.
Recent improvements, according to Sabiyyi, include ongoing upgrades to staff welfare packages, training opportunities, and reforms in internal administrative processes.
The association’s call for calm and professionalism comes at a time when tensions are rising in several sectors of the public service over salaries, inflation, and labor rights. However, PASAN’s message is clear: dialogue over disruption.
“We remain focused on protecting the interests of our members through peaceful means and constructive engagement. We urge all staff to cooperate as we work toward achieving more wins for the parliamentary workforce,” Sabiyyi concluded.
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