The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have announced a peaceful solidarity rally in Abuja to support striking workers associated with the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
Scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, the rally will occur at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). This information was shared through a joint statement released by the unions on Sunday.
According to the unions, the purpose of the rally is to visibly reiterate their support for the members of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), who are currently involved in a dispute with the FCTA.
"To show our solidarity, we wish to inform all affiliates that the TUC and NLC will organize a peaceful rally at the FCDA on Tuesday, February 3rd. This rally aims to publicly declare that an injury to one is an injury to all, reinforcing that the Nigerian labour movement will support its members," the statement read.
In the signed statement by Benson Upah, Acting General Secretary of the NLC, and Nuhu Toro, Secretary General of the TUC, the unions reiterated their unwavering support for the striking workers, despite facing pressure to withdraw from this action.
"We affirm, without hesitation, our total commitment to this cause. It is a struggle rooted in justice, fairness, and respect for labor rights and must be pursued with a united purpose and an indomitable spirit," the statement emphasized.
The unions called upon JUAC members to stay steadfast, resilient, and courageous in defending their rights and dignity. They warned against any form of intimidation, urging workers not to give in to hardships or fear affecting their demands.
The unions also noted that labor victories have historically been achieved through united collective actions, emphasizing, "History teaches us that rights are not given, but won through collective resistance and principled struggle."
They have instructed all affiliate unions and state councils in the FCT to mobilize their members for the rally, affirming that the event will be lawful and peaceful. "We call on all affiliates and state councils to ensure massive participation in this allowed and calm action," they stated, mentioning that details regarding the rally’s meeting places and times will be conveyed through respective groups.
The message to workers within the FCTA was clear: "You are not alone. We stand with you. No retreat, no surrender," the message concluded.
In response to the rally's announcement, Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, questioned the rationale behind the ongoing protests.
Olayinka stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that FCTA workers had already received their January salaries, including partial payment of outstanding wage arrears.
"FCTA workers received their January salary last Friday, alongside one month of the five months' wage award arrears," he noted.
He further explained that two out of the five months' wage award arrears have now been settled, with plans to pay the remaining three months together with the February, March, and April salaries.
Additionally, he claimed that the workers who are the subject of the protest have resumed their duties, asserting that they were present at work last week and would continue to report to work.
Olayinka accused the NLC of mobilizing workers from other sectors who should be fulfilling their roles instead. He also questioned the NLC’s emphasis on FCTA, given that similar wage award disputes exist across the country.
"Over 20 states have either stopped paying the Wage Award or have failed to implement it. The NLC has not addressed these issues. The FCT has been responsive in making payments relevant to their problems," he added.
Previously, PREMIUM TIMES reported on the wage conflict amidst ongoing legal proceedings stemming from an indefinite strike initiated by FCTA workers under JUAC, starting January 19 due to unresolved welfare issues.
Following a motion filed by Mr. Wike, the National Industrial Court mandated a suspension of the strike. The court has scheduled further hearings for March 25.
Meanwhile, the NLC and TUC have accused the FCT Minister of worker intimidation, reaffirming their support for the striking employees. They labeled the National Industrial Court’s ruling as 'biased' and urged workers to remain brave.
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