The industrial dispute between the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and its staff has escalated as the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) announced plans for a solidarity rally with members of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).
The rally is scheduled to hold on Tuesday at the premises of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) in Abuja, with all affiliates and state councils of the NLC and TUC in the FCT expected to participate.
A joint statement by NLC Acting General Secretary Comrade Benson Upah and TUC Secretary-General Comrade General NA Toro emphasised that the action underscores the labour movement’s principle: “An injury to one is an injury to all.”
The statement reiterated unwavering support for striking FCT workers.
The labour leaders said the solidarity rally is a continuation of their commitment to the ongoing struggle, urging JUAC members to remain resolute in defending their rights.
“This is a struggle rooted in justice, fairness, and respect for labour rights and must be pursued with unity of purpose and an unbreakable spirit,” they said.
The strike centres on allegations of non-remittance of National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions and pension fund contributions by the FCTA, in violation of the Pension Reform Act 2014 (as amended).
Both labour centres warned against attempts to intimidate or wear out the striking workers through hardship or fear.
“History has taught us that rights are never gifted—they are won through collective resistance and principled struggle,” the statement said.
It called for full mobilisation and participation of all affiliates in the peaceful action, adding that details on convergence points and timing would be communicated to members by their respective affiliates.
The NLC and TUC assured that there would be no retreat or surrender in the face of repression, affirming their commitment to protect workers’ rights across the FCT.
