By Benjamin Chibueze
The National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Abuja, is to deliver its ruling on a suit filed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the FCT Administration against leaders of the Joint Union Action Committee over the ongoing strike by FCT workers.
Justice E.D. Subilim fixed the ruling date after hearing arguments from both parties in the suit seeking to restrain the union from continuing industrial action, picketing or lockout.
The strike, which began last Monday after a seven-day ultimatum expired, has crippled activities across major FCTA offices, including the FCTA Secretariat in Abuja.
While the FCTA claims most workers’ demands have been met, the union insists critical issues remain unresolved. Counsel to the workers argued that granting the injunction would amount to deciding the substantive case prematurely and warned against forcing unpaid workers back to work.
However, counsel to the FCTA contended that JUAC lacked legal standing to declare a strike, describing the action as illegal and contrary to due process.
Meanwhile, FCTA and FCDA workers, supported by the Nigeria Labour Congress, picketed the court premises on Monday, demanding Wike’s removal and accusing the FCTA of wage abuse, intimidation and neglect of workers’ welfare. Several unions have since joined the strike in solidarity.
