FCT: Wike, Labour Unions Reach Agreement, Workers Resume Duties

The prolonged industrial action in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has ended following a resolution between organised labour and the Minister of the FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike. The agreement paves the way for the immediate resumption of work by affected employees.

The development was announced in a circular jointly signed by the Acting General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr Benson Upah, and the Secretary-General of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Mr Nuhu Toro. The circular was circulated to all affiliates of both labour centres in Abuja.

According to the circular, the resolution followed a conciliatory meeting between labour leaders and the FCT minister, convened at the request of the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, Senator Mohammed Bomoi. The discussions began around 11:45 p.m. on Sunday and concluded at approximately 3:51 a.m. on Monday.

Labour leaders said all concerns raised by members of the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) were thoroughly examined during the meeting. Mr Wike, they noted, assured “mutual respect” and committed to sustained engagement on labour-related issues within the FCT.

Both parties agreed that no worker would face victimisation for participating in the strike and that all pending cases at the National Industrial Court would be withdrawn immediately. Consequently, the NLC and TUC directed all affected workers to resume duties without delay.

Labour leaders called for strict compliance with the directive, describing the outcome as a demonstration of good faith by all parties. They stressed that dialogue and assurances against victimisation were key conditions for the suspension of the industrial action.

The strike, which commenced on January 19, was prompted by unresolved grievances, including welfare concerns and allegations of high-handedness within the FCT Administration.

(NAN)