NLC protesters
National Industrial Court has restrained the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and three other parties from embarking on any form of strike or protest within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Justice Emmanuel Subilim issued the interim order while ruling on an ex-parte application filed by the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, alongside the FCT Administration. The court specifically barred the 1st to 5th respondents, including their agents and affiliates, from proceeding with any industrial action pending the determination of a motion on notice.
In the same ruling, Justice Subilim directed the 5th to 9th defendants—identified as security agencies—to ensure that law and order are maintained and that there is no breakdown of peace in the nation’s capital.
The ex-parte motion, filed by counsel to the FCT Minister and the FCTA, Ogwu Onoja, informed the court that the Chairman of the FCT council had allegedly circulated a mobilisation message calling on members and affiliated unions to participate in a mass protest scheduled for February 3. According to the applicant, this action was in clear violation of an earlier court order.
Onoja further told the court that following a ruling delivered on January 27, the court’s order was duly served on the defendants the same day. However, despite being served, the NLC and TUC reportedly issued a joint statement directing their affiliated unions to intensify and sustain the ongoing strike action.
The statement, jointly signed by both labour centres, instructed workers to continue the strike, citing that their counsel, Femi Falana, had filed an appeal against the interlocutory ruling. It was also alleged that the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) subsequently issued a circular directing all employees to remain on strike.
The applicants argued that these actions were capable of triggering a breakdown of law and order in Abuja, prompting the urgent intervention of the court.
Justice Subilim thereafter adjourned the matter to February 10 for hearing of the motion on notice.
