The Federal Capital Territory Administration has been hit by an indefinite strike, prompting the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to seek a court order to halt the industrial action. The lawsuit, filed at the National Industrial Court in Abuja, aims to restrain the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) from picketing, blocking offices, or disrupting official activities.
The strike, which began after a seven-day ultimatum expired, has led to the shutdown of major government offices, including the FCTA Secretariat. The JUAC had issued the ultimatum to press for the resolution of workers’ demands, which they claim remain unaddressed. As a result, workers have been advised to stay at home until further notice.
Court documents reveal that the lawsuit, bearing suit number NICN/ABJ/17/2026, is scheduled for hearing on Monday. Justice E. D. Subilim has granted approval for substituted service of court processes on the union leadership, allowing service through newspaper publication and the posting of notices at the JUAC office within the FCTA Secretariat.
Despite the legal action, the JUAC has maintained its stance, insisting that the strike will continue until workers’ demands are met. The union’s decision has significant implications for the functioning of the FCTA, with many essential services already disrupted.
The strike is the latest development in a long-standing dispute between the FCTA and its workers. The JUAC has been seeking improved working conditions, better pay, and other benefits for its members. The FCT Minister’s decision to seek a court order to halt the strike suggests a hardening of positions, with no clear resolution in sight.
As the situation unfolds, the FCTA’s operations are likely to remain severely impacted. The court’s decision on Monday will be closely watched, as it may determine the trajectory of the dispute. With the strike showing no signs of abating, the FCTA and the JUAC will need to find a way to resolve their differences to restore normalcy to the territory’s administration.
