Casual and contract staff of the Benue State Board of Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) are set to stage a peaceful protest at IBB Square on October 1, 2025, demanding fairness and dignity in their employment. The protest highlights over five years of exploitation, with nearly 80% of the BIRS workforce earning a meager ₦38,400 monthly—a figure unchanged since 2019, despite the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage.
These highly qualified workers, who play a critical role in generating substantial revenue for the state, include 60% degree holders, 30% master’s degree holders, and 10% NCE/ND graduates. Yet, they have endured poor remuneration and casualization in silence, significantly contributing to the state’s economy.
The workers are calling on Governor Hyacinth Alia to urgently intervene and ensure justice, equity, and the dignity of labor are upheld within BIRS. They argue that the future of Benue’s workforce depends on fair treatment today.
As the protest looms, all eyes will be on the state government’s response to address the longstanding grievances of these essential workers.
Stay tuned for updates on the protest and its outcomes.
