Fresh controversy has emerged around the ongoing strike by workers in Abuja, as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has been accused of mobilising paid protesters to publicly back his administration.
According to information obtained by Chronicles Reporters, a group of demonstrators believed to be loyal to the FCT minister gathered on Wednesday along Umaru Diko Way, near Monoliza Restaurant, off Ahmadu Bello Way. The show of support came amid the continued industrial action by workers under the Joint Action Committee (JAC), who are protesting unresolved labour and welfare issues.
Sources familiar with the situation alleged that the gathering was carefully organised rather than a spontaneous expression of support. They claimed that several participants were transported from different locations within the city using multiple vehicles, apparently to counter rising public sympathy for the striking workers.
Video footage seen by Chronicles Reporters shows individuals holding placards in support of Wike and the FCT administration. In the clip, vehicles are seen dropping off protesters at the location, while some participants appeared uncertain about the messages displayed on the placards they carried.
The strike, led by the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) representing workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), has disrupted operations across several government offices in Abuja.
Earlier this week, JUAC announced that the strike would continue indefinitely. In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary and circulated to members on Thursday, the union confirmed that it had filed an appeal against a recent National Industrial Court judgment. The union maintained that the appeal legally sustains the ongoing industrial action until workers’ demands are fully addressed.
“Strike action continues,” the statement declared, urging workers to remain united and resolute.
JUAC accused the FCT minister and unnamed allies of attempting to pressure and intimidate workers instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue to resolve the dispute. The union leadership thanked members for complying with the stay-at-home directive despite what it described as increasing threats and pressure from authorities.
“We appreciate your discipline and solidarity in staying at home to demand our rights,” the statement read. “The union has appealed the court judgment, and the strike will continue until all legitimate demands are met.”
The union further alleged that there were attempts to harass union leaders and workers in order to force an end to the strike, warning that such actions would not weaken their resolve.
“JUAC will not bow to intimidation or harassment in any form,” the statement said, while urging all FCTA and FCDA staff to remain at home until further notice.
Reiterating its position, the union insisted that responsibility for the ongoing crisis lies with the authorities, arguing that the dispute could be resolved if the government sincerely addresses workers’ concerns rather than relying on what it described as coercive tactics.
“Aluta continua. The time to act is now,” the statement concluded.