‘Workers Are Not Slaves’ — NLC, TUC insist FCT strike remains in force

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have declared full solidarity with striking workers of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), insisting that the ongoing industrial action will continue despite a ruling of the National Industrial Court.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, the labour centres accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of subjecting workers to intimidation, harassment and humiliation, describing his actions as an attempt to reduce workers to “perpetual slaves.”

The unions criticised the National Industrial Court ruling which ordered the suspension of the strike, describing it as “patently skewed” and one-sided. They said they had expected the court ruling to open a window for dialogue, but instead alleged that the FCT Minister resorted to threats against workers.

According to the statement, the grievances of FCT workers go beyond administrative disagreements, accusing the FCT Administration of systematic violations of workers’ fundamental rights.

“Workers cannot be made slaves in their own country,” the statement read. “We stand for the rule of law and its observance to the hilt, regardless of the status of the parties involved.”

The NLC and TUC clarified that the interlocutory injunction obtained by the FCT Minister was directed at two individual union leaders and not against the trade unions themselves, insisting that the legal position leaves the strike intact.

The labour centres urged workers to remain resolute and maintain high morale in the face of what they described as relentless intimidation.

The statement also issued a strong warning to the judiciary, condemning what it referred to as “cash-and-carry judges” whose conduct, according to the unions, undermines public confidence in the justice system.

While commending judges who uphold justice and protect the weak, the unions warned that judicial actions capable of destabilising society would attract accountability, “if not by man, then by God.”

The NLC and TUC concluded by reaffirming that the strike would continue until the FCT Minister engages in meaningful negotiations with workers.

“Workers must keep fighting for their rights. It is safer to die on your feet than live on your knees,” the statement declared.

The statement was signed by Comrade Benson Upah, Acting General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress.