The National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, along with some of their officials, to suspend any planned strike or protest in the Federal Capital Territory.
Justice Emmanuel Subilim issued the interim order after reviewing an ex parte application filed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The application was presented by a senior advocate on behalf of the claimants.
The court order affects the two labour unions as well as specific officials, including the NLC spokesperson, the TUC General Secretary and the Chairman of the FCT chapter of the NLC. The judge also instructed security agencies to maintain peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order in Abuja.
According to the claimants, labour leaders had circulated messages calling on workers and affiliated unions to participate in a mass protest scheduled for February 3. They said the planned action went against an earlier court order issued on January 27, which had directed unions to suspend industrial action and resume work while a substantive case was pending.
The claimants further told the court that despite being served with the earlier order, labour unions allegedly issued fresh directives encouraging workers to continue the strike. They said this decision was based on the unions’ claim that an appeal had been filed against the interlocutory ruling.
The court was informed that the continued strike had already led to the closure of offices, schools and departments under the FCT Administration, bringing official activities to a halt. The claimants expressed concern that the planned protest could disrupt traffic, affect residents and threaten public safety in the capital.
Justice Subilim ruled that all parties involved must refrain from any form of protest or industrial action until the court hears and decides on the motion on notice. The case was adjourned to February 10 for further hearing.