Industrial Court Orders FCTA Workers to Suspend Strike Pending Hearing
Justice Emmanuel Subilim of the National Industrial Court has directed workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to suspend their ongoing strike action, pending the hearing and determination of the originating summons before the court.
The order was issued following an application by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who sought judicial intervention to compel the striking workers to resume duties. In the suit, the Minister listed the President and the Secretary of the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) as respondents.
In his ruling, Justice Subilim emphasized that once a trade dispute is formally referred to the National Industrial Court, all industrial actions, including strikes, must be suspended. He relied on Section 18(1)(e) of the Trade Disputes Act, which mandates the cessation of strikes upon the filing of an originating summons, as such filing constitutes a referral of the dispute.
The court further warned that non-compliance with Section 18 of the Act could attract sanctions. Justice Subilim underscored that the preservation of industrial harmony and public interest outweighs any inconvenience occasioned by suspending the strike.
The matter has been adjourned to 25 March 2026 for substantive hearing.
