The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has sent a solidarity message to striking workers in the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), whom the Industrial Court ordered to suspend their actions, describing the ruling as surprising and distasteful.
A statement by the Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Benson Upah, urged the workers not to let their hearts be broken, noting that the court ruling cannot weaken the resolve of already aggrieved workers.
The statement also faulted the court for failing to examine the allegations brought forward by the workers, including claims of non-remittances of the National Housing Fund and pension deductions.
Furthermore, the statement puts on notice organisations and individuals violating the provisions of the Pension Fund Act and National Housing Fund Act, warning that such violations will lead to serious engagement with the NLC.
The statement also called on workers and NLC organs to remain on high alert in light of the recent development.
On Tuesday, Justice Emmanuel Subilim of the National Industrial Court ordered workers of the FCTA to suspend their ongoing industrial action pending the hearing and determination of the originating summons.
The ruling followed an application filed by the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, seeking a court order compelling striking FCTA workers to return to work.
In the suit, the FCT Minister named the President and the Secretary of the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) as respondents.