Government operations across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ground to a halt this morning as workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) commenced an indefinite strike, leading to the complete shutdown of major offices and secretariats.
As early as 7:00 a.m., the main gates of the FCTA/FCDA Secretariat complex were locked, barring staff, visitors, and vehicles from entry. Most agencies and departments within the secretariat remained closed, with no administrative activities taking place.
The strike, directed by the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), affects all cadres of workers across secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals, effectively paralyzing public services in the territory.
The industrial action follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to FCTA management on January 7, 2026 (communicated in a statement dated January 8 and signed by JUAC President Comrade Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Comrade Abdullahi Saleh).
Despite several meetings during the ultimatum period, the unions reported no meaningful response or resolution from the authorities.JUAC cited a litany of long-standing grievances, including:
- Unpaid promotion arrears and stalled promotions
- Non-remittance of pension contributions and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions
- Poor working conditions, staff intimidation, and lack of training
- Non-payment of certain entitlements, such as for Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) enforcement officers
- Continued extension of service for retired directors and permanent secretaries, seen as a violation of public service rules
- Failure to fully implement agreements, including partial payment of wage awards
In a late Sunday night circular titled “Code: Remain at Home,” JUAC directed all staff to stay away from work and urged full compliance, warning that a task force had been deployed to enforce the directive.
The union described the strike as part of ongoing “agitations for better working conditions in the FCTA” and vowed it would continue indefinitely until demands are met.
Our correspondent monitoring the situation confirmed the deserted gates and shutdown atmosphere at the usually bustling secretariat.
The action has raised concerns about disruptions to essential administrative services in Abuja, including potential impacts on health, education, urban planning, revenue collection, and other critical functions.
As of this report, the FCTA management, including Minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike, has not issued an official public response to the strike. Copies of the strike notice were previously sent to relevant authorities, such as the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, and the Head of Service.
The situation remains tense, with union leaders emphasizing that workers will not return until concrete action addresses their grievances. This development comes amid broader labour unrest in the public sector, highlighting persistent challenges in welfare and accountability within the FCT administration.
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