By Governor Sheriff Oborevwori,Promise Dera
Copyright nigerianeye
A growing conflict between the Delta State Government and the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Delta State Chapter, is intensifying over a new mandatory dress code for civil servants, raising concerns about a potential escalation.
The policy, introduced by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, aims to address what officials call “improper dressing” in the public service, reinforcing a 2009 directive with updated standards to promote a “culture of decency.”
Announced via a circular from the Office of the Head of Service and shared by the governor’s New Media Office, the policy mandates specific attire: suits for men from Monday to Thursday, “senators’ suits” with caps on Fridays, and designated outfits for women.
However, the directive has provoked strong opposition from civil servants and the NLC, who argue it is impractical amid economic hardships.In Asaba, Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, defended the policy, stating, “There is no going back on the dress code.”
In response, NLC Chairman Goodluck Oforbrukueta rejected the directive, declaring, “We will not allow it.”
He argued that civil servants already dress appropriately under existing civil service rules, which only require attire that is not inappropriate.
Oforbrukueta called on workers to ignore the policy, warning, “If the worst comes, we will resist it and see how far the directive will go.”
The NLC chairman criticized the government for imposing the policy without consulting labour representatives, accusing it of disregarding workers’ welfare.
He highlighted the financial burden of the dress code on workers’ “already dip purkets” and pointed to inadequate working conditions, including shortages of basic office supplies like chairs, tables, pens, and paper.
The standoff threatens to disrupt public service operations as both sides remain firm, with the NLC signaling potential resistance if the government does not reconsider its approach.
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