NLC Knocks Court Over Order Suspending FCTA Workers Strike

By Chinedu Echianu

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have expressed disappointment over the ruling of the National Industrial Court suspending the strike embarked upon by workers in the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

The court’s decision, delivered on Tuesday, January 27, followed a suit instituted by the Minister of the FCT/FCT Administration against workers and their unions which has now been adjourned to March 25, 2026.

A press statement signed by the acting General Secretary of NLC, Benson Upah says while the workers respected the authority of the court, they were concerned that the ruling failed to address what they described as persistent violations of labour laws by the FCT Administration.According to the statement, the court did not grant any form of injunctive relief to protect workers despite alleged breaches of statutory obligations by their employer.

The workers specifically accused the FCT Administration of failing to remit National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions and pension contributions as required by law. They cited provisions of the NHF Act, which stipulate penalties ranging from heavy fines to possible imprisonment for employers who fail to remit deductions within the stipulated period.

They also referenced the Pension Reform Act 2014, which mandates remittance of pension contributions within seven working days of salary payment, with penalties accruing for defaults.

Describing the long adjournment and suspension of the strike as damaging to workers’ interests, the statement alleged that the FCT Minister had already begun issuing threats of dismissal to workers, even before the court order was fully formalized, adding that such action creates a hostile atmosphere that undermined any prospect of constructive dialogue.

The statement urges FCT workers to remain resolute, insisting that their resolve could not be broken. The union also warned institutions and individuals allegedly violating the Pension Reform Act and the NHF Act to expect “serious engagement,” adding that workers and labour organs nationwide had been placed on high alert to enforce compliance with existing labour laws.