Wike threatens sanctions as FCTA workers defy court order to resume duties

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to striking workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), declaring that any staff member who fails to resume work in defiance of a court order will face sanctions.

Wike made this known while speaking with journalists on Tuesday, January 27, stressing that the National Industrial Court had explicitly directed the workers to suspend their ongoing strike and return to their duties. According to the minister, disobedience to the court’s directive would not be tolerated by the FCTA.

He disclosed that enforcement of the order would commence from Wednesday, adding that decisive action would be taken against individuals or groups found blocking offices or disrupting official activities.

“Anybody who refuses to obey the court order will be sanctioned. From tomorrow, enforcement begins,” Wike said, warning that those who attempt to shut down government offices or prevent others from working would be made examples of.

The minister emphasized that the FCTA had consistently shown willingness to engage in dialogue, noting that several meetings had already been held between labour unions and management in an effort to resolve the dispute.

However, he cautioned that the administration would not succumb to intimidation or blackmail under the guise of industrial action, insisting that the rule of law must take precedence over all other considerations.

Wike’s remarks come amid continued industrial unrest within the FCTA, which has disrupted essential public services across Abuja.

As tensions rise, the standoff between the government and labour unions has sparked concerns over the potential impact on residents of the nation’s capital if the impasse persists.

Observers have urged both parties to prioritize dialogue and lawful engagement to avert further disruption and ensure the smooth functioning of public institutions in the FCT.