The Federal Capital Territory Administration has directed all workers across its secretariats, departments, and agencies to resume duty with immediate effect following a ruling by the National Industrial Court in Abuja.
The court, sitting in Abuja on Tuesday, ordered striking workers to suspend their industrial action. Justice Emmanuel Subilim ruled that although the case before the court qualified as a trade dispute, workers do not have an unrestricted right to strike once the matter has been referred to the National Industrial Court. He held that any ongoing strike must stop until the court reaches a final decision on the case.
After the ruling, the office of the Head of Civil Service of the FCT Administration issued a circular directing all staff to return to their duty posts without delay. The circular, signed by Nancy Nathan, the acting Head of Civil Service, instructed permanent secretaries and heads of departments and agencies to ensure strict monitoring of staff attendance. It also stated that management remains committed to staff welfare while expecting full compliance with the directive.
The administration further ordered that the message be widely circulated across all ministries, departments, and agencies to ensure that every worker is informed and complies accordingly.
FCTA workers had embarked on an indefinite strike last week over unresolved labour and welfare issues. The action led to the shutdown of activities in several government offices across Abuja, disrupting public services.
Meanwhile, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warned that any worker who fails to return to work after the court order would face disciplinary action. He said disobeying a lawful court decision would not be tolerated and added that enforcement would begin immediately.
The minister also cautioned against any attempt to block government facilities, stating that anyone involved would face legal consequences as the administration moves to restore normal operations across the territory.