Wike Cautions FCT Workers Against Defying Court Order in Ongoing Industrial Dispute
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike on Thursday warned workers under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) that disobeying a court order on their industrial action would attract consequences, stressing that filing a notice of appeal does not amount to a stay of execution.
Speaking in Abuja while handing over 12 new ambulances to hospitals across the territory, Wike addressed the union’s decision to continue the strike despite the pending court matter.
“The mere fact that I file notice of appeal does not automatically mean there is a stay of execution,” he said. “It’s unfortunate when people say they will not obey court orders. That means we’re in a lawless society.”
He cautioned against actions such as blocking gates, adding: “By the time we go for contempt of court against those who are blocking our gates or those who wrote letter that they will not obey the court order, then you will see the difference.”
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Wike maintained that the administration remained open to dialogue and was addressing the workers’ concerns systematically. “If you make a request or a demand of five items, for example, and the government says okay, we can take up these three items, after this we take up the other two items. If you are really sincere, if there is no objective behind it, there is no way you will not accept,” he noted.
He, however, accused some individuals of politicising the dispute, saying: “When you leave dialogue and begin to join us as politicians, we will first treat you as politicians… Of course, no government will shut its eyes and allow that to happen.”
The minister emphasised that no administration could resolve all challenges simultaneously, but assured workers that issues were being tackled progressively. “Nobody can solve all our problems and as long as we are living, problems will come up. What is important is that you are focused and you are doing the best you can do,” he added.
Wike highlighted reforms introduced under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that before now, FCT Administration staff retired at director level. The creation of the FCT Civil Service Commission has now enabled career progression to permanent secretary and Head of Service positions—significant changes that have altered the structure of career advancement for thousands of workers in the territory.
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The dispute has followed a familiar pattern in the FCT’s labour relations. The Industrial Court had earlier intervened in the action, leading to a temporary resumption of duties by staff. However, the workers subsequently appealed the ruling and resumed the strike, prompting the latest exchange.
While specific demands in the current action have centred on outstanding welfare and administrative issues, the broader context reflects long-standing concerns over conditions of service in the FCT Administration. Prior to the establishment of the Civil Service Commission, staff operated under a hybrid federal arrangement that limited their career ceiling and placed them outside the mainstream civil service structure with its full range of benefits and promotions.