Labour union strike in Abuja politically motivated – Wike
FCT Minister Describes Labour Strike as Politically Motivated
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has characterized the strike initiated by the FCT chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) as an act driven by political motivations. Wike asserted that the issues raised by the workers had already been addressed and were in the process of being resolved.
Wike highlighted that both the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) have distanced themselves from the strike. He emphasized that the government would enforce a “no work, no pay” policy against employees participating in the industrial action, asserting that the administration has settled all outstanding matters with local councils.
“If you want to expose yourself, you are free to. But excuse yourself if you are not part of the union, so you don’t participate,” he stated.
The minister reiterated that the government has taken steps to address labor demands, arguing that there are no unresolved issues between the administration and the workers. He questioned the rationale behind the strike, reflecting a lack of understanding regarding why workers would engage in industrial action in light of the administration’s efforts to resolve their grievances.
Wike also alleged that the chairman of the FCT NLC is pursuing a political agenda associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), suggesting that the conflict extends beyond labor issues.
The NLC’s FCT Council announced on Wednesday an indefinite strike, instructing workers in both public and private sectors to halt operations at schools, hospitals, government offices, and other establishments across the territory. This decision followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCT Administration (FCTA) regarding unresolved grievances, particularly concerning the promotion of teachers.
The labor council has accused the FCTA of neglecting its demands, specifically the call to eliminate the requirement for vacant positions before allowing teacher promotions.
