FCTA Workers Defy Court Order, Continue Strike Amid Warnings from Minister Wike
- The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) workers defy court order and vow to continue strike over welfare demands
- FCT Minister Wike threatens sanctions as workers persist in industrial action
- Wike claims over N12 billion allocated for salaries, urging workers to return
Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada has over 8 years of experience covering metro, government policy, and international issues
FCT, Abuja - The striking workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have defied a court order to suspend the ongoing strike in the nation’s capital.
Legit.ng reports that the National Industrial Court halts the FCTA workers' strike based on an interlocutory injunction.
The FCTA workers also later vowed to continue the strike despite threats of sanctions.
The workers have vowed to remain at home despite the court’s intervention until their demands regarding staff welfare and the removal of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, are met.
The workers under the auspices of the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) are demanding 14 other things, like payment of five-month wage awards.
The Chairperson of the FCDA Chapel, Felicia Okoro, insisted that the industrial action would continue.
As reported by Daily Trust, Okoro stated this while addressing her colleagues on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
“They have the guns, they have the resources, but the people’s power is greater than theirs.”
A union official disclosed that the judgment would be appealed today, Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
The strike has shut down activities at the FCT Secretariat and many other agencies, including schools and area council secretariats.
Wike warns FCTA workers to resume or face sanctions
Wike directed the FCTA workers to return to their posts or face legal consequences.
Shortly after the ruling, the minister said the rule of law must prevail.
He maintained that the FCTA had made substantial efforts to address concerns, including salary payments and civil service reforms.
Wike disclosed that over N12 billion had been approved for January salaries.
He said this has demonstrated his commitment to staff welfare.
“Workers are largely responsible for the lack of development in states, including the FCT.”
He warned that any further attempts to lock government premises would lead to “severe consequences,” adding, “Seeing me in person is not a right.”
Angry Abuja workers pursue Wike’s motorcade
Recall that tension rose in Abuja on Monday, January 26, 2026, as striking workers confronted the convoy of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The aggrieved workers, protesting over unresolved welfare and salary issues, were seen chanting and moving towards the vehicles.
A video sighted by Daily Trust captured the moment the protesters pressed their demands and chased the minister’s motorcade.
Strike: NLC declares war on Wike’s FCTA
Legit.ng earlier reported that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) directed FCTA workers to mobilise for a significant court appearance amid the ongoing indefinite strike.
Joe Ajaero accuses FCTA leadership of wage abuse and calls for solidarity among diverse stakeholders.
The NLC president declared daily prayer sessions to sustain workers' morale and unity in their struggle.
Source: Legit.ng
