The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected an order of the National Industrial Court directing the suspension of the ongoing strike by workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), insisting that the ruling will not weaken the resolve of the affected workers.
The labour union made its position known in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah. He said the Congress was dismayed by the decision of the court to halt the industrial action and adjourn the substantive hearing of the matter to March 25, 2026.
According to the NLC, the court failed to address the core grievances that led to the strike, thereby denying workers meaningful relief. The union argued that the ruling ignored what it described as persistent violations of labour laws by the FCTA.
Upah faulted the National Industrial Court for not making any pronouncement on the key issues raised by the workers, particularly the alleged failure of the FCTA to remit statutory deductions. He said these issues formed the foundation of the strike and could not be brushed aside.
The NLC stated that among the unresolved complaints are the non-remittance of National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions and pension contributions. According to the union, these actions constitute clear breaches of existing labour and financial regulations.
The Congress noted that under the law, failure to remit NHF deductions is a criminal offence. It said such violations can attract fines ranging from N50,000 to N100 million, as well as possible jail terms for officers responsible for the default.
The union also cited provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014, as amended, which mandate employers to remit pension deductions within seven working days. It said the law prescribes penalties of up to 24 per cent per annum for any delay or failure in remittance.
According to the NLC, the court’s decision to adjourn the matter for an extended period without granting any form of injunctive relief is harmful to the interests of workers. The congress described the development as irredeemably damaging to the cause of aggrieved employees.
The union expressed concern that the long adjournment, combined with the refusal to grant interim relief, raises questions about the court’s disposition to the matter. It said workers were left without protection despite the seriousness of the allegations raised.
The NLC further accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory of worsening the situation following the court ruling. It is alleged that the minister issued threats of sack to striking workers shortly after the order was made.
According to the union, the minister’s response created a hostile and toxic environment that makes meaningful dialogue difficult. It said the threats further escalated tensions instead of promoting a peaceful resolution of the dispute.
Upah said the NLC found it distasteful that the court did not consider granting even a minimal injunctive relief to protect workers, despite the gravity of the alleged violations. He added that the court’s action appeared to embolden threats and intimidation against employees.
The Congress insisted that if the intention of the court’s ruling was to break the strike or weaken the determination of the workers, such an effort would fail. It said the resolve of the affected workers remains strong and unbroken.
The NLC urged workers to remain resolute and steadfast in their convictions, stressing that their struggle is rooted in the enforcement of laws meant to protect their welfare. It said workers should not be intimidated into abandoning legitimate demands.
The union also warned that there are risks when judicial institutions fail to act decisively in matters affecting workers’ rights. It said such situations could undermine public confidence and weaken respect for the rule of law.
According to the statement, the NLC is placing all institutions, organisations, and individuals that violate the provisions of the Pension Reform Act and the National Housing Fund Act on notice. It said the Congress would engage such defaulters seriously.
The labour body further urged its organs and members nationwide to remain on high alert to ensure compliance with these laws. It warned that the NLC is prepared to act if any party assumes the union is bluffing.
The NLC maintained that the ongoing strike is a response to systemic violations that must be addressed through compliance with existing laws. It said the court order does not resolve the fundamental issues confronting FCTA workers.
The union concluded by reiterating its commitment to defending workers’ rights and ensuring accountability in the administration of statutory deductions. It insisted that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done in matters affecting Nigerian workers.
