Wike Orders FCTA Workers Back to Work, Warns of Sanctions

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has directed striking workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to resume duties immediately, following a ruling by the National Industrial Court that brought the industrial action to an end.
The strike, which disrupted activities across Abuja for over a week, was declared unlawful by the court. Wike warned that any worker who defies the ruling and continues the strike would face strict legal and administrative consequences.
Addressing journalists after the judgment, the minister said the FCT Administration would not tolerate further disruption of public services. He announced the approval of more than ₦12 billion for the payment of January salaries, reaffirming the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
Wike described the strike as unjustified and alleged that it had been politicised, claiming that politicians hijacked the dispute while mediation efforts were ongoing. He also dismissed some of the demands by workers as unreasonable, noting that several issues raised were already being addressed through ongoing reforms.
Highlighting achievements of the FCT Administration, the minister said it had generated over ₦30 billion in internally generated revenue, established the FCT Civil Service Commission, and made significant investments across the territory.
Reacting to online reports suggesting he was forced out of his office by protesting workers, Wike denied the claims, explaining that his absence was due to an official engagement to see President Bola Tinubu off at the airport. He described the reports as false and misleading.
The minister further accused some senior FCTA officials of instigating the strike and attempting to undermine government operations.