By Muhammad Mamman
Abuja was effectively shut down on Monday as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) threw its weight behind an indefinite strike by workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), paralysing public services and commercial activities across the nation’s capital.
From the early hours of the day, major roads were blocked, government offices remained closed, and public transportation was severely disrupted as labour unions mobilised workers and supporters to enforce compliance with the industrial action. Schools, hospitals and key public institutions were also affected, leaving residents stranded and businesses counting losses.
The strike, declared by FCTA workers over unresolved grievances, is centred on demands for improved welfare, outstanding allowances and the implementation of previously agreed conditions of service. Union leaders accused the FCTA authorities of failing to honour commitments despite repeated negotiations and warnings.
Addressing protesters in Abuja, NLC leaders said the decision to back the strike indefinitely was taken after the government allegedly ignored ultimatums to resolve the issues. They insisted that normal activities would not resume until concrete steps were taken to meet workers’ demands.
“This action is about fairness and dignity for workers,” an NLC official said. “We have exhausted dialogue. The shutdown will continue until the right thing is done.”
Security agencies were deployed to strategic locations to maintain order, though the protests remained largely peaceful. Officials of the FCTA were yet to issue a formal response at the time of filing this report.
As the impasse drags on, residents fear prolonged disruption if negotiations fail to resume swiftly, raising concerns about the economic and social impact of an extended shutdown in the capital.
