Written by Omeiza Ajayi
Abuja — After appealing the National Industrial Court’s decision to suspend the industrial action, workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) yesterday resumed the indefinite strike they started on January 19 over unresolved welfare issues.
Few employees were seen in the FCTA Secretariat, Departments, and Agencies because the majority followed JUAC’s order to remain at home.
Through its lead attorney, Femi Falana, SAN, the union had appealed the court’s decision from January 27.
The case has been postponed until March 23.
In a letter to members, JUAC Secretary Abdullahi Saleh called on employees to carry on the strike, characterizing it as a fight requiring “unity, discipline, and unwavering commitment.” He pointed out that in a joint statement, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) urged workers to bravely defend their rights and demanded that the strike carry on until the FCT Minister engaged in talks with employees.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike cautioned that the appeal does not automatically prevent the court’s order from being carried out. Speaking while 12 new ambulances were being distributed throughout the region, Wike said that the majority of the workers’ demands had already been met and that the industrial action was needless.
“Let me be clear: simply filing a notice of appeal does not amount to a stay of execution,” Wike stated. Strikes and litigation are not the greatest strategies, and we are still willing to have discussions. However, we will treat individuals involved appropriately when labor issues are combined with political motivations.
