Labour, Wike Reach Truce As FCT Workers Return To Work
Strike Ends After High-Level Talks
ORGANISED labour unions and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, have resolved their disagreement, paving the way for the immediate resumption of duties by workers affected by the industrial action in Abuja.
The resolution was communicated through a circular issued on Tuesday to all affiliates of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) operating under the FCT Administration.
Circular Signed by Labour Leaders
The circular was jointly signed by the Secretary-General of the TUC, Mr. Nuhu Toro, and the Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Mr. Benson Upah. It confirmed that the dispute was settled following extensive consultations between organised labour and the FCT minister.
According to the document, the breakthrough followed a conciliatory meeting convened at the instance of the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, Senator Mohammed Bomoi.
Late-Night Negotiations
Labour leaders disclosed that the meeting began at about 11:45 p.m. on Sunday and continued into the early hours of Monday, ending around 3:51 a.m. The talks were described as exhaustive, with all grievances raised by members of the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) thoroughly discussed.
The circular stated that the meeting addressed key concerns that led to the strike, including issues of staff welfare and allegations of high-handedness within the FCT Administration.
Assurances and Agreements
As part of the resolution, the FCT minister reportedly assured organised labour of mutual respect and sustained engagement on labour-related matters going forward. Both parties also agreed that no worker would be victimised for participating in the strike.
In addition, all outstanding cases related to the dispute currently before the National Industrial Court were to be withdrawn immediately, a condition labour unions had consistently demanded before suspending the strike.
Directive to Resume Work
Following the agreement, the leadership of the NLC and TUC directed all affected workers to resume duties without delay. The directive applies to all affiliates of both labour centres within the FCT Administration.
Labour leaders urged strict compliance with the directive in the interest of industrial peace and administrative stability in the nation’s capital.
Background to the Dispute
Workers under the FCT Administration had embarked on strike action on January 19 over unresolved grievances, including welfare concerns and complaints of alleged heavy-handed treatment by authorities.
The unions had maintained that dialogue, mutual respect, and guarantees against victimisation were essential conditions for ending the industrial action. They described the outcome of the meeting as a demonstration of good faith by all parties involved.
