A storm is brewing in Delta State’s civil service after the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Goodluck Oforbruku, demanded wardrobe allowances for workers following the state government’s introduction of a revised dress code policy.
Speaking in Asaba, Oforbruku criticized the decision, accusing the government of imposing the new directive without engaging labour representatives. He described the move as “insensitive and unfair” at a time when civil servants are battling economic hardship and soaring living costs.
“The civil service runs on rules and structures. Any policy that places additional financial burdens on workers must be properly discussed with stakeholders. You cannot implement such measures without considering the struggles of the average worker,” Oforbruku said.
He warned that many civil servants already struggle to feed their families, pay rent, and meet basic responsibilities, adding that enforcing stricter dress codes would only deepen their financial woes unless backed by proper welfare support. The NLC boss insisted that the government should provide wardrobe allowances to cushion the cost of compliance with the new policy.
While acknowledging the importance of decency and professionalism, Oforbruku cautioned against victimization of staff by departmental heads and supervisors. He urged workers to report any cases of harassment to labour leaders, promising that the NLC would defend their rights.
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The controversy erupted after a circular issued by the Office of the Head of Service on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, directed civil servants to comply with specific dress standards across all grade levels. The directive, which has already sparked heated debate among workers, mandates stricter patterns of dressing that many say will strain their pockets in an economy already weighed down by inflation.
The Trumpet gathered that labour leaders are holding consultations, while civil servants anxiously await the government’s response to Oforbruku’s demand for wardrobe allowances. Observers warn that the matter could escalate into a major industrial face-off if left unresolved.
