Normalcy is set to return to the Federal Capital Territory as the National Industrial Court suspends the workers’ strike, with the FCT Administration reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, worker welfare, and lawful governance.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has welcomed the decision of the National Industrial Court ordering the immediate suspension of the indefinite strike embarked upon by workers, describing the ruling as a victory for the rule of law and a crucial step toward restoring stability in the nation’s capital.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, shortly after the verdict, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, said the court’s intervention protects the FCT from unlawful disruptions and politically motivated actions capable of paralysing governance.
The Minister noted that the ruling mandates an immediate return to work and cautioned against any attempt to defy the court order or obstruct access to FCTA offices, stressing that the administration would enforce compliance strictly within the ambit of the law.
Barr. Wike expressed concern that the strike action had been hijacked by political interests, emphasizing that while the administration respects the democratic right of workers to protest, it would not tolerate intimidation, blackmail, or actions that undermine due process.
He reaffirmed the FCTA’s openness to genuine dialogue, revealing that substantial progress has already been made in addressing labour demands. According to him, over 10 of the 14 demands presented by the unions have been fully resolved.
On wage awards, the Minister confirmed that December payments had been made, January payments processed, and February payments on schedule, assuring workers that the administration remains committed to meeting its obligations.
Wike also highlighted the financial realities of the FCT, noting that the territory receives only one percent of the Federal Government’s share from the Federation Account. Despite this constraint, he disclosed that the FCTA has grown its Internally Generated Revenue from ₦9 billion to ₦30 billion, enabling it to fund major infrastructure projects alongside staff welfare.
Earlier, the National Industrial Court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Subilim, granted an interlocutory injunction restraining the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) from further industrial action, pending the determination of the substantive suit adjourned to March 23, 2026.
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