By Our Correspondent
The National Industrial Court of Nigeria sitting in Abuja has granted an application filed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, ordering workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to suspend their ongoing strike action.
In its ruling, the court issued an interlocutory injunction restraining the workers and their unions from continuing the strike or engaging in any activity capable of disrupting government operations within the Federal Capital Territory.
The order also prohibits picketing, blocking of access to government offices, and any action that could hinder public service delivery in the nation’s capital.
The court’s decision followed a suit filed by the FCT Minister and the FCTA after the industrial action led to the shutdown of several government offices and disrupted administrative activities across Abuja. The applicants argued that the strike was незакон and posed a serious threat to public order and governance.
After considering the application, the presiding judge held that sufficient grounds had been established for the court to intervene and granted the order pending the hearing and determination of a substantive motion on notice.
The court further directed that court processes be served on the union through substituted means, including publication in a national newspaper and posting at the union’s office, following the absence of union representatives in court.
The matter was adjourned to a later date for further proceedings.
The strike began after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued by the workers, who are demanding the payment of outstanding entitlements, promotion arrears, and the resolution of other long-standing welfare issues.
Despite the court order, union leaders have hinted that the industrial action may continue until their demands are fully addressed, raising concerns about a prolonged standoff between labour and the FCT authorities.
