Escalating tensions between Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and civil servants took a decisive turn Thursday when the FCT Administration obtained a court order suspending ongoing industrial action by workers’ unions.
The National Industrial Court (NICN) in Abuja granted an Order of Interlocutory Injunction preventing the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) from proceeding with its indefinite strike, which had threatened to cripple government operations in the nation’s capital.
Justice E. D. Subilim ruled in favor of the FCTA following arguments that centered on unpaid promotion benefits and statutory allowances owed to workers. The injunction explicitly forbids JUAC from engaging in picketing, imposing lockouts, blocking roads, or conducting any activities aimed at disrupting administrative functions.
Dr. Ogwu Onoja, SAN, representing the FCTA, contended that the strike action constituted an illegal shutdown of essential services. The administration has also raised questions about JUAC’s legal status, arguing that as an umbrella organization, it may lack recognition as a registered trade union under the Trade Disputes Act.
JUAC President Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Abdullahi Umar Saleh did not appear in court. Justice Subilim consequently authorized substituted service, directing that court documents be displayed at JUAC’s Area 11 Secretariat office and published in a national newspaper to ensure proper notification.
The strike had entered its second week amid workers’ demands for outstanding payments related to career advancement and other benefits.
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