FCTA worker protest in Abuja faces police and court warnings over security risks, but NLC and TUC insist on proceeding with solidarity rally

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command and the National Industrial Court have urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to postpone a planned FCTA worker protest, citing security concerns and the risk of infiltration by non-state actors.

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The planned rally was scheduled for Tuesday in support of striking Federal Capital Territory Administration workers, who have been on indefinite strike since January 19 over unpaid salaries, promotion arrears, and poor working conditions.

While the police acknowledged citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, Public Relations Officer SP Josephine Adeh warned that intelligence reports indicated possible involvement of proscribed groups, including the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, that could hijack the protest and threaten public peace.

“In view of the overriding interest of public safety, the Command respectfully appeals to the organisers to consider rescheduling the activity to a later date and time,” SP Adeh said.

Separately, the National Industrial Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Subilim, issued an interim order restraining the NLC, TUC, and three union leaders — including NLC spokesperson Benson Upah and TUC Secretary General N.A. Toro — from organising any industrial action or protest in the FCT pending further hearing.

The court cited concerns over potential breakdowns of law and order and the violation of an earlier injunction issued on January 27, 2026.

The court adjourned the matter to February 10 for the hearing of a motion on notice, directing security agencies to ensure that law and order are maintained.

Despite the police advisory and court order, organised labour insisted on proceeding with the rally. NLC spokesperson Benson Upah stated, “Sure, the rally will go ahead,” adding that the union had not been served with the court ruling.

He maintained that the protest is lawful and aimed at highlighting the plight of FCTA workers.

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The standoff underscores rising tensions between federal authorities and organised labour in the nation’s capital, with further legal and security developments expected in the coming days.