The National Industrial Court in Abuja has ordered workers under the Joint Union Action Committee to stop their strike following an application by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the FCT Administration. The suit was filed against the leadership of the union, asking the court to restrain the workers from continuing any form of industrial action, including picketing and shutdown of offices.
In his ruling, Justice E. D. Subilim held that the matter before the court qualified as a trade dispute and met the legal requirements for the court’s intervention. He stated that once a dispute has been taken to the National Industrial Court, workers are no longer permitted to embark on or continue a strike until the case is resolved.
The judge granted an order stopping the workers, their leaders, and representatives from engaging in any strike, lockout, or actions that could disrupt government activities, including blocking roads or preventing access to offices. He directed that the order should remain in force until the court determines the main case.
The court fixed March 23, 2026, for the hearing of the substantive suit.
After the ruling, counsel to the FCT Administration welcomed the decision, saying it would allow both sides to return to dialogue and explore mediation. He urged the unions to comply with the order and resume work to restore normal activities in the capital.
Lawyers representing the workers said they would advise their clients to obey the court order. The leadership of the Joint Union Action Committee also confirmed that workers would return to duty while awaiting the next court appearance, as discussions on their demands continue.