By Peter Omopo
The National Industrial Court has issued an interim order restraining the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) from proceeding with their planned protest scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, in Abuja.
Justice Emmanuel Sibilim granted the order on Monday while ruling on an ex parte application filed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
In the ruling, the court restrained the 1st to 5th respondents, their agents and privies from embarking on any strike or protest action pending the hearing and determination of a motion on notice. The judge also directed the 5th to 9th defendants, identified as security agencies, to ensure that law and order are maintained within the Federal Capital Territory.
The ex parte application, filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, James Onojon, on behalf of the minister and the FCTA, argued that the Chairman of the FCT council had circulated mobilisation messages calling on members and affiliated unions to participate in a mass protest slated for February 3, despite existing court orders.
According to the applicant, the protest plan violated an earlier ruling of the court delivered on January 27, which was served on the defendants the same day. Despite the service of the order, the NLC and TUC reportedly issued a joint statement urging their affiliates to intensify and sustain the strike action.
The unions’ statement, jointly signed by their leadership, directed striking workers to continue the action, noting that their counsel, Femi Falana (SAN), had filed an appeal against the interlocutory ruling. Following this, JUAC reportedly circulated a directive to its members to maintain the strike.
The court adjourned the matter until February 10 for the hearing of the motion on notice.
TVC News recalls that the NLC had earlier announced plans for a solidarity rally in Abuja alongside the TUC and JUAC, describing the protest as a demonstration of labour’s commitment to the principle that “an injury to one is an injury to all.”
However, with Monday’s ruling, the planned protest has been put on hold pending further court proceedings.
