Tensions in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) eased early Tuesday following a late-night agreement between the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and labour unions, bringing an end to days of strike action that had disrupted public services.
The agreement came after hours of intense negotiations that began just before midnight, facilitated by Senator Mohammed Bomoi, chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT. Sources familiar with the talks described an initially confrontational atmosphere, with voices raised and tempers flaring, before order was restored through mediation.
Union leaders, including Joe Ajaero of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Festus Osifo of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), attended alongside officials and representatives from both labour centres. According to participants, the discussions focused on addressing workers’ grievances and ensuring protections for those who participated in the strike.
Following the talks, Benson Upah, acting general secretary of the NLC, speaking to journalist said that a series of agreements had been reached to restore industrial peace.
He confirmed that no worker would face retaliation for the strike and that all pending cases related to the dispute in the National Industrial Court would be withdrawn.
“All issues raised by union members have been fully addressed,” Upah said. “Minister Wike assured us of continued dialogue and mutual respect moving forward.”
Workers in the FCT have been instructed to resume duties immediately. Upah stressed that compliance is necessary to maintain harmony and prevent further disruption to public services.
“All affiliates of the TUC and NLC working in the Ministry of the FCT are hereby directed to resume work immediately,” he said.
The strike, which had disrupted public services and raised concerns over safety and access to essential facilities, followed days of tension between organised labour and the FCT Administration.
Police had earlier warned against the planned protest, while the minister secured a court order restraining workers from proceeding.
