• FCTA
• Industrial Action
• NLC
• Workers

NLC ESCALATES FIGHT WITH FCT ADMINISTRATION, CALLS FOR MASS PROTEST AT INDUSTRIAL COURT

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  CapitalTimesNews / 2 weeks
• 0
• 2 min read

The Nigeria Labour Congress has escalated its stand-off with the Federal Capital Territory Administration by calling on workers to stage a mass demonstration at the National Industrial Court in Abuja on Monday. This move follows legal action filed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, against striking workers who are protesting alleged wage arrears and withheld benefits. NLC President Joe Ajaero announced that the national leadership has formally taken over the dispute, framing it as a wider struggle for workers’ rights. After an emergency meeting with leaders of the Joint Unions Action Council, Ajaero stated, “The FCTA’s actions amount to bureaucratic oppression and exploitation.” He further declared, “This is no longer just a labour dispute; it is a people’s struggle against an insensitive administration.” Ajaero directed all FCT workers to converge at the Industrial Court on Monday to demonstrate solidarity. In a significant escalation, the NLC has instituted compulsory daily prayer and solidarity sessions across the territory, running from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Congress is also encouraging alliances with civil society groups, student organizations, and community activists to broaden support for the cause. The grievances driving the strike include the alleged illegal withholding of five months’ wages and promotion arrears. Workers also cite the non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund contributions since May 2025, as well as intimidation. Ajaero warned that workers’ patience had run out, insisting the NLC would sustain and intensify the action until the issues are addressed. He vowed to continue until the dignity of workers is restored. With tensions mounting, the impending showdown at the Industrial Court is poised to become a pivotal moment for labour-government relations in the nation’s capital. It signals both the determination of the workers and the challenges facing the FCTA in resolving the dispute.