…Abdullahi Saleh called on FCTA workers to sustain the strike, describing it as a collective struggle requiring “unity,
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), yesterday resumed the indefinite strike they initially commenced on January 19 over unresolved welfare concerns. This followed the union’s decision to challenge a ruling by the National Industrial Court directing the suspension of the industrial action.
At the FCTA Secretariat, as well as various departments and agencies, only a handful of workers were present, with the majority complying with JUAC’s instruction to remain at home.
JUAC, through its lead counsel, Femi Falana, SAN, filed an appeal against the court’s January 27 judgment. The case has been adjourned until March 23.
In a circular to members, JUAC Secretary Abdullahi Saleh called on FCTA workers to sustain the strike, describing it as a collective struggle requiring “unity, discipline, and unwavering commitment.” He added that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), in a joint statement, had urged workers to boldly defend their rights and insisted that the strike should continue until the FCT Minister enters negotiations with staff.
However, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike cautioned that filing an appeal does not automatically halt the enforcement of the court’s order. Speaking at the distribution of 12 new ambulances across the territory, Wike described the strike as unwarranted, stating that the majority of the workers’ demands had already been met.
“The filing of a notice of appeal does not amount to a stay of execution,” Wike said. “Litigation and strikes are not the best solutions, and we are still open to dialogue. But where labour issues are mixed with political interests, those involved will be dealt with appropriately.”
