Abuja was effectively shut down on Wednesday as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) declared full support for the ongoing indefinite strike by workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). The action brought major activities in the nation’s capital to a halt, signalling a sharp escalation in the labour dispute.
The NLC said it has entered what it described as an all-out confrontation with the FCTA leadership, accusing the administration of persistent wage abuse, intimidation of workers, and violations of labour laws. The Congress described the strike as unavoidable, insisting that the grievances of the workers had been ignored for too long.
In a statement signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC condemned the FCTA management and political leadership for what it termed oppressive and insensitive conduct toward workers. The statement said the strike, led by the Joint Unions Action Congress, was a justified response to sustained attacks on workers’ rights and welfare.
According to the NLC, the FCTA has illegally withheld five months’ wage awards and promotion arrears owed to workers. The Congress said the failure to pay these entitlements amounted to a direct assault on the livelihoods of affected employees and their families.
The NLC also accused the FCTA of diverting and failing to remit pension contributions and National Housing Fund deductions. It is alleged that these deductions have not been remitted since May 2025, describing the situation as deliberate economic sabotage against both serving and retired workers.
The Congress warned that the non-remittance of pension contributions exposes workers to hardship and poverty in retirement. It said such actions undermine the security and dignity of workers after years of service.
Beyond financial issues, the NLC accused the FCTA of using intimidation and suppression to silence workers. It is alleged that management imposed restrictions such as banning the use of mobile phones at workplaces and harassing staff members perceived to be sympathetic to the strike.
The Congress further claimed that some union activists had been detained as part of efforts to weaken the resistance of workers. It described these actions as unacceptable and contrary to constitutional provisions and international labour standards.
In response to these developments, the NLC ordered an immediate escalation of the strike across the Federal Capital Territory. It directed all its affiliate unions to fully align with the industrial action and withdraw services until workers’ demands are addressed.
The NLC declared that the dispute was no longer limited to FCTA workers alone. It said the struggle now represents the collective fight of all workers in the FCT against unfair labour practices and exploitation.
As part of the escalation, the Congress directed workers to mobilise in large numbers to the National Industrial Court on Monday, January 26, 2026. The court is expected to hear matters relating to the dispute on that date.
The NLC urged workers to attend the court session in a peaceful but visible manner. It said their presence would demonstrate unity and resolve and serve as a reminder of the seriousness of the grievances.
In an unusual directive, the Congress announced compulsory daily prayer and solidarity sessions for workers across the FCT. These gatherings are scheduled to run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.
According to the NLC, the sessions are intended to provide spiritual and moral support to workers and to strengthen their commitment to the strike. The Congress described the gatherings as peaceful assemblies aimed at sustaining the momentum of the action.
The NLC also instructed trade unions to build alliances with civil society organisations, student groups, and community activists. It warned that the dispute has expanded beyond a labour disagreement and has become a broader social struggle.
The Congress said the issues at stake touch on justice, accountability, and respect for the dignity of labour. It added that public support would be crucial in compelling the authorities to address the demands of workers.
The NLC warned that the patience of the working class has been exhausted. It said previous ultimatums issued to the FCTA remain in force and that failure to act would result in intensified actions.
As of the time of filing this report, activities across several FCTA offices and public services in Abuja remained grounded. The shutdown has heightened tension in the capital and raised concerns about the economic and administrative impact of a prolonged strike.
Residents and businesses in Abuja are already feeling the effects of the disruption, with many offices closed and essential services affected. Observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether dialogue can be reached or whether the standoff will deepen further.
