Justice Emmanuel Subilim of the National Industrial Court has directed workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to immediately suspend their ongoing strike action until the court concludes hearing and determination of the substantive matter before it.
The order followed an application brought before the court by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who sought a directive compelling the striking workers to resume their official duties.
In the suit, the FCT Minister listed the President and Secretary of the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) as respondents, arguing that the industrial action violated established legal procedures governing trade disputes.
Delivering his ruling, Justice Subilim held that once an industrial dispute is formally referred to the National Industrial Court, all forms of industrial action, including strikes, must be put on hold. He relied on Section 18(1)(e) of the Trade Dispute Act, explaining that the provision is designed to preserve industrial harmony and allow disputes to be resolved through lawful judicial processes.
The judge noted that the filing of an originating summons constitutes a valid referral of a dispute to the court, making it mandatory for all strike actions connected to the matter to cease. He warned that any refusal to comply with Section 18 of the Act could attract sanctions against the defaulting parties.
Justice Subilim stressed that the broader public interest in sustaining industrial peace and ensuring uninterrupted public services outweighs any inconvenience that may arise from suspending the strike action.
The matter was subsequently adjourned to March 25, 2026, for substantive hearing.
The industrial action began on January 19, when workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Federal Capital Development Authority shut down operations across Abuja over what they described as “unmet demands” by the Federal Government.
The strike disrupted activities across FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals within the Federal Capital Territory.
What you should know
The National Industrial Court’s ruling reinforces provisions of the Trade Dispute Act that require workers to suspend strike actions once a dispute is before the court.
The FCTA workers’ strike, which paralysed government activities in Abuja, was triggered by unresolved welfare concerns. By ordering a halt to the industrial action, the court prioritised public interest and industrial stability while allowing the legal process to determine the dispute’s outcome.
The case will now proceed to a full hearing in March 2026, where the substantive issues behind the strike will be addressed.
