Justice Emmanuel Subilim of the National Industrial Court has ordered workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to suspend their ongoing industrial action pending the hearing and determination of the originating summons.
The ruling followed an application filed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who sought a court order compelling striking workers to return to duty. The minister named the President and Secretary of the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) as respondents in the suit.
In delivering his judgment, Justice Subilim noted that industrial action, including strikes, must be suspended once a dispute is referred to the National Industrial Court. Citing Section 18(1)E of the Trade Dispute Act, the court explained that suspending strikes ensures disputes are properly resolved and that failure to comply with the provision may attract sanctions.
The judge emphasized that the public interest in maintaining industrial peace outweighs any inconvenience caused by the suspension of the strike.
The case has been adjourned to March 25, 2026, for hearing.
