The Federal Capital Territory could grind to a halt after 3 July, as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) threatens a mass protest if lingering industrial disputes remain unresolved.
The FCT chapter of the NLC says it will flood Abuja’s streets with workers unless the FCT Administration (FCTA) urgently addresses long-standing welfare issues plaguing staff across the six area councils.
The dispute, which has already crippled operations in public schools, primary healthcare centres, and local government secretariats, centres on unpaid minimum wage arrears, a 40% peculiar allowance, and the failure to implement agreed salary increases of 25% and 35%.
“We postponed action because of President Tinubu’s inauguration activities in the FCT, but as soon as they end on 3 July, we’ll hit the streets,” said NLC FCT Chair, Comrade Stephen Knabayi.
Adding fuel to the fire, workers were outraged by the abrupt suspension of a N70,000 minimum wage implementation that began in May but was halted without explanation in June.
The unions involved—including the Nigeria Union of Teachers, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, and the National Association of Health Workers—accuse council chairmen of ignoring repeated pleas and making no serious effort to resolve the crisis.
A seven-day ultimatum issued on 13 June expired without any progress, triggering full-scale mobilisation plans. The NLC confirmed it has formally notified both the FCTA and security agencies of its intent to protest, calling it a final warning to avoid further disruption of essential services in the capital.
Unless swift action is taken, Abuja could soon witness one of its largest labour showdowns in recent memory.
