NLC and TUC Suspend Abuja Protest as FCTA Workers Resume Duties
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have officially called off their planned solidarity protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), directing all workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to resume their duties with immediate effect. This decision follows a high-stakes meeting involving labour leaders, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and members of the Senate Committee on the FCT, which concluded in the early hours of Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
Resolution of the Industrial Dispute
The suspension marks a significant breakthrough in a conflict that began on January 19, 2026, when workers under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) launched an indefinite strike. The industrial action, which crippled operations across the FCTA and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), was rooted in unresolved welfare issues, including unpaid allowances and the implementation of salary reviews.
In a joint statement signed by Nuhu Toro, TUC Secretary-General, and Benson Upah, Acting NLC General Secretary, the unions confirmed that the grievances raised by JUAC were "fully addressed" during the negotiations. As part of the agreement:
Workplace Immunity: The Minister assured the unions that no worker would face victimisation for participating in the strike.
Legal Withdrawal: All outstanding cases related to the dispute currently before the National Industrial Court (NIC) are to be withdrawn immediately.
Sustained Engagement: A commitment was made to maintain mutual respect and regular dialogue between the FCT administration and organised labour moving forward.
Judicial and Security Context
The resolution arrives at a critical juncture. On Monday, February 2, the National Industrial Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Subilim, had issued an interim order restraining the NLC, TUC, and JUAC from proceeding with the Tuesday protest. The court action followed an ex parte application by the FCT Minister and the FCTA, citing concerns over public safety and the potential for a breakdown of law and order.
Additionally, the FCT Police Command had earlier warned against the demonstration, citing intelligence reports suggesting that non-state actors and proscribed groups intended to hijack the protest. The successful negotiation has effectively de-escalated these security tensions, allowing for a return to administrative normalcy in the nation’s capital.
Outlook for Industrial Harmony
The agreement is expected to restore essential services across the FCT’s secretariats and departments. By aligning the interests of the workforce with the administrative goals of the FCTA, the resolution provides a template for managing future labour disputes through legislative mediation rather than protracted litigation.
"All JUAC members and all affiliates of the TUC and NLC working in the Ministry of the FCT are hereby directed to resume work immediately in the interest of industrial peace," the union leadership stated.
