By Peter Adelowo
Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, are facing a difficult dilemma following a court order suspending their ongoing strike and a counter-directive from organised labour to continue the protest.
The industrial action had paralysed offices, schools, and essential services across Abuja for seven days.
The National Industrial Court, presided over by Justice E. D. Subilim, ordered the immediate suspension of the strike embarked upon by workers under the Joint Union Action Committee, JUAC, to allow dialogue to continue.
Following the ruling, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Nyesom Wike, urged workers to resume duties immediately, stressing that while the right to protest is recognised, court orders must be obeyed.
He assured that the FCT Administration remains committed to dialogue and addressing genuine welfare concerns.
In compliance with the court directive, the Acting Head of the Civil Service, Mrs. Nancy Sabanti, issued a circular instructing all Secretariats, Departments, and Agencies to reopen offices and enforce staff attendance, effective January 27, 2026.
However, the situation became complicated as the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, issued a counter-directive instructing its Abuja-based affiliate unions to sustain and intensify the strike.
The NLC says the action will continue until issues such as unpaid wage awards, promotion arrears, and non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund deductions are fully addressed.
Thousands of FCTA workers are now caught between obeying a court-backed government directive and remaining loyal to union instructions.
Many describe the situation as stressful and uncertain, fearing disciplinary action on one hand, and accusations of betrayal on the other.
Labour analysts warn that prolonged defiance of court orders could attract legal sanctions, while strict enforcement by the government may escalate tensions.
Observers call on all parties to return to the negotiation table urgently to restore normalcy and protect essential services in the nation’s capital.
SIDEBAR
