The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of intimidating workers and expressed full support for the ongoing strike by FCT employees.
In a joint statement on Wednesday, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah and TUC Secretary General N.A. Toro said the minister’s actions, alongside a recent National Industrial Court ruling, were aimed at undermining the industrial action.
The unions described the treatment of FCT workers as unacceptable, alleging harassment, insults, and intimidation by the FCT administration.
“Today, we find it necessary to issue a joint statement in solidarity with the workers of the Federal Capital Territory who have been shabbily treated by the Minister of FCT, Mr Wike, and rubber-stamped by an Abuja National Industrial Court in a one-sided ruling intended to break up the strike and make workers perpetual slaves,” the statement read.
The unions said they had expected the court process to open a window for dialogue and amicable resolution but accused the minister of resorting to threats instead.
They urged striking workers to remain resolute, insisting that coercion or denial of workers’ rights could not be tolerated.
“Happily, Mr Wike obtained an order of interlocutory injunction against two individual union leaders, not the striking trade unions. The strike therefore continues. Defend your rights with courage and dignity and not with fear,” the unions stated.
The labour organisations also called on the judiciary to uphold fairness, commending judges who protect citizens’ rights while warning that those undermining justice would be held accountable.
The strike, which began on January 19, was prompted by unpaid salaries, promotion arrears, and poor working conditions.
Despite the National Industrial Court ordering workers to resume, the unions affirmed that the industrial action remains in force until the FCT Minister engages in meaningful negotiations.
