Government offices across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were thrown into partial shutdown on Monday as workers commenced an industrial action that disrupted official activities in Abuja and the six area councils.
The strike was initiated by employees under the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the management of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
JUAC had, on Friday, announced plans to halt operations across government offices if their demands were not addressed. The unions said the ultimatum, which began on January 7, 2026, elapsed without any concrete response from the authorities, despite several internal engagements during the period.
In a statement dated January 8 and jointly signed by JUAC President, Comrade Rifkatu Iortyer, and Secretary, Comrade Abdullahi Saleh, the unions formally notified relevant officials of their intention to embark on the action. Copies of the notice were sent to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services.
According to the unions, workers were directed to withdraw their services over what they described as the government’s persistent failure to resolve long-standing labour and welfare concerns.
Key among the issues raised are unpaid promotion arrears, delayed promotions, and the continued extension of service for directors and permanent secretaries who are due for retirement. JUAC also accused the FCTA of failing to remit workers’ pension contributions and National Housing Fund deductions.
Additionally, the unions expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of the 2024 promotion examinations, describing the exercise as poorly handled and alleging that it negatively impacted a significant number of candidates.
As of the time of filing this report, government offices across the FCT remained largely inactive, with workers insisting the strike would continue until their demands are meaningfully addressed.
