The National Industrial Court has ordered workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to suspend their ongoing strike.
The order followed a request by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who asked the court to compel the striking workers to return to their duties while the case is being heard.
In the suit, Wike named the President and Secretary of the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) as defendants.
Justice Emmanuel Subilim ruled that once a labour dispute is taken to the National Industrial Court, all forms of industrial action must stop.
He explained that the law does not allow strikes to continue after a dispute has been formally referred to the court.
The judge referred to Section 18(1)(e) of the Trade Dispute Act, stating that the purpose is to allow the court resolve the matter without disruption.
He added that ignoring this provision could lead to penalties.
Justice Subilim emphasized that the need to maintain public order and industrial harmony is more important than any inconvenience caused by suspending the strike.
The case has been adjourned to resume on March 25, 2026.
KanyiDaily recalls that the strike began on January 19, when FCTA workers and the Federal Capital Development Authority shut down offices across Abuja, citing unresolved demands by the Federal Government.
