FCT Minister Wike Urges Dialogue as Court Orders Workers to Resume Duties

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has emphasized the administration’s openness to reasonable dialogue with striking workers, following a court ruling mandating the resumption of duties. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Wike stressed that the FCT Administration had largely met legitimate demands before seeking legal intervention.

Wike clarified that while government respects workers’ rights, some demands exceeded what employees were entitled to, describing them as “frivolous.” He noted that the administration initially pursued dialogue rather than confrontation, but court action became necessary when political interests attempted to hijack the strike.

“This is a democracy. Everyone has the right to protest, but strike action should be a last resort. If government addresses issues within ten days of a fourteen-day demand, there should be room for understanding,” Wike said.

The minister also addressed misinformation circulating online, rejecting claims that he was forced from his office during the strike. He explained that the FCT receives only one per cent of federal revenue, making reliance on statutory allocation insufficient to cover salaries and administration, with Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rising from ₦9 billion to ₦30 billion under his leadership.

Wike highlighted key reforms, including the establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission, appointment of permanent secretaries, and creation of the Office of the Head of Service, stressing that balanced spending between wages and infrastructure development is critical.

Following the court ruling, Wike warned that workers who fail to resume duties would face disciplinary action. “Disobeying the law has consequences. Anyone blocking government facilities will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.

Reaffirming his commitment to lawful resolution of disputes, Wike assured that engagement with unions continues and called on all parties to adhere to the court’s decision, stressing that the administration would not allow blackmail or political games to hinder governance and reforms in the FCT.