The National Industrial Court (NIC) in Abuja has issued an order compelling workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to suspend their ongoing indefinite strike. According to a ruling, Justice E.D. Subilim granted an interlocutory injunction following a suit filed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the FCTA against the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).
The judge ruled that while the dispute qualifies as a trade dispute, the right to strike is not absolute, and once a case is referred to the court, any ongoing industrial action must cease pending a final determination.
Key Points:
The court order represents a significant legal escalation by the FCT administration to break the deadlock and restore operations in the capital.
It reinforces the legal principle that once a labour dispute is sub judice (before a court), industrial action should be paused to allow for judicial resolution.
The ruling places immediate pressure on the striking unions to comply or face potential legal consequences for contempt of court.
It provides a reprieve for the FCTA, shifting the battleground from the streets and offices to the courtroom for a legal resolution of the grievances.
The decision tests the unions’ strategy and their next move, balancing member solidarity with adherence to a court order.
The injunction introduces a judicial mandate into the protracted dispute, compelling a pause in the strike while the court examines the merits of the case.
Sources: Nigerian Tribune (Court Ruling)