NLC, TUC to hold solidarity rally in Abuja over FCDA Workers’ strike Feb. 3

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced plans to stage a peaceful solidarity rally on February 3 in support of workers under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) currently on strike at the Federal Capital Territory.

The labour centres made this known in a joint statement issued in Abuja and signed by NLC General Secretary, Benson Upah, and TUC Secretary-General, Nuhu Toro.

The rally is in solidarity with Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) workers who embarked on an indefinite strike on January 19 over the non-payment of outstanding salaries and unresolved welfare issues.

JUAC members shut down major administrative offices, including the FCTA Secretariat and the FCDA headquarters, following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued on January 7 to the FCT Administration.

According to the unions, the planned rally is aimed at reaffirming labour’s long-held position that “an injury to one worker is an injury to all.”

“The action will send a clear message that the Nigerian labour movement will resist all forms of intimidation and injustice against workers,” the statement read.

The NLC and TUC described the ongoing struggle as legitimate and non-negotiable, insisting that it would be sustained until justice is achieved for the affected workers.

They assured JUAC members of their total and unwavering support, urging them to remain steadfast, courageous and united in the defence of their rights.

The labour centres explained that the peaceful protest would be directed at the Federal Capital Development Authority, stressing that the rally would be conducted within the confines of the law.

They further directed all affiliated unions and state councils to mobilise massively for the solidarity rally, warning that intimidation or repression would not weaken workers’ resolve.

“Workers’ rights are never given freely; they are won through collective struggle,” the unions stated.

The NLC and TUC also reassured workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that they would not be abandoned in their quest for justice. (NAN)