Wike Threatens Sanctions as Court Orders End to FCTA Strike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has threatened to impose sanctions on staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) who are currently on strike, following a court order directing an immediate end to the industrial action.
Wike made this known on Monday in Abuja, stressing that the rule of law must be respected and that government operations in the nation’s capital cannot be held hostage by prolonged industrial disputes. He warned that any worker who fails to comply with the court directive would face disciplinary measures in line with public service rules.
According to the minister, the strike action is незакон and disruptive, particularly given the essential nature of services provided by the FCTA. He noted that the court had clearly ordered the workers to resume duties, and the government expects full compliance without delay.
“The FCT Administration will not tolerate disobedience to court orders,” Wike said. “Anyone who chooses to remain at home after this directive should be prepared to face the consequences.”
The strike, embarked upon by some FCTA staff unions, has reportedly affected key services across the Federal Capital Territory, including area council operations and municipal services. The workers are protesting unresolved issues related to welfare, allowances, and other outstanding demands.
Wike acknowledged that the administration remains open to dialogue but insisted that negotiations can only continue after workers return to their duty posts. He emphasized that lawful engagement, not industrial action in defiance of court orders, is the appropriate channel for resolving disputes.
As of the time of filing this report, union leaders had yet to issue an official response to the minister’s warning.
