The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said the administration remains open to reasonable dialogue with striking workers following a court order directing them to resume duties. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, he stressed that the government had prioritised engagement before turning to legal action.
Wike stated that the administration had substantially addressed what it considers the workers’ legitimate demands. However, he argued that some requests went beyond normal entitlements, which complicated discussions and prolonged the industrial action.
He explained that the government did not immediately go to court when the strike began, choosing instead to pursue dialogue. According to him, legal intervention was only sought when the situation appeared to be taking on a political dimension.
The minister also dismissed social media claims that he was chased out of his office during the strike, describing the reports as politically motivated misinformation. He maintained that he continued his official duties, including trips to see the president and travel abroad.
On the financial realities of the FCT, Wike noted that the territory receives about one per cent of federal revenue, making it impossible to fund salaries and administration from statutory allocation alone. He highlighted an increase in internally generated revenue, which he said rose from ₦9 billion to ₦30 billion under the current administration.
He further pointed to administrative reforms such as the establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission and new senior appointments, saying these changes benefit workers. While urging compliance with the court ruling, he warned that refusal to resume work could lead to disciplinary action.
