The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to striking staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), directing them to return to work immediately or risk legal consequences. The warning follows a ruling by the National Industrial Court ordering the suspension of the industrial action that has disrupted public services in Abuja for more than a week.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday shortly after the court’s decision, Wike stressed that the rule of law must be respected, adding that the administration would not tolerate further defiance of the court order. He accused political actors of exploiting the strike for reasons unrelated to the welfare of workers, claiming that the action had been “hijacked” despite ongoing mediation efforts.
According to the minister, several of the demands presented by the striking workers were either unreasonable, already resolved, or lacked merit. He said the FCTA only approached the court after concluding that political interference was undermining constructive dialogue between the government and workers’ representatives.
Wike outlined steps taken by the administration to improve staff welfare, including prompt salary payments and reforms within the FCT civil service. He disclosed that over ₦12 billion had just been approved for the payment of January salaries, describing the decision as clear evidence of the government’s commitment to its workforce.
The minister also highlighted improved financial performance under his leadership, revealing that the FCT had generated more than ₦30 billion in internally generated revenue, a significant increase compared with previous years. He urged workers to acknowledge reforms such as the establishment of the Civil Service Commission and ongoing infrastructure investments across the territory.
In a controversial remark, Wike argued that workers themselves often contributed to underdevelopment in states, including the FCT. He also dismissed claims circulating on social media that he had been forced out of his office during protests, explaining that he had only stepped out to see President Bola Tinubu off at the airport.
Adopting a firm tone, Wike warned against any renewed attempt to disrupt government operations. He stated that anyone who attempted to shut down government offices again would face severe consequences, insisting that the law must be obeyed.
The minister further alleged that some senior civil servants, including certain directors, had played a role in sustaining the strike. He maintained that such actions would not deter the administration from enforcing the court’s directive.
Wike emphasised that workers were not entitled to direct access to him, noting that their representatives had remained in discussions with management throughout the dispute. He concluded by warning that any staff member who failed to comply with the court order would face legal action as the FCTA moves to restore full public services.
FCTA workers, under the Joint Union Action Committee, began an indefinite strike on 19 January over unresolved welfare concerns. The National Industrial Court granted an interlocutory injunction halting the strike on 21 January, with the matter adjourned to 27 January.
