FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s spokesperson
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) government has denied owing salaries to striking workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
Spokesperson to the FCT Minister, Lere Olayinka, stated this during an interview with a media channel on Wednesday.
He said no salary arrears exist, except for January 2026 pay, which is not yet due as the month is ongoing.
“The government is not owing staff of the FCTA and FCDA a dime in terms of salary,” Olayinka said.
The strike began on January 19 over unmet demands, halting operations at FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals.
READ MORE
- Labour Party Fixes Date for Presidential Primary, Releases Full Timetable
- Soludo Sworn In for Second Term as Anambra Governor
- Kimpact Partners NYSC to Mobilise Corps Members for Civic Education
Olayinka addressed promotion arrears, noting that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike approved N286.1 million in December for 724 officers. Payment is now being processed at treasury level.
On claims of no audience from the minister, he said Wike sent senior officials — including the Head of Service, Chief of Staff, Permanent Secretary, and Civil Service Commission Chairman — for multiple meetings with union leaders.
The minister earlier said 10 of the workers’ 14 demands have been met, with dialogue attempted but unsuccessful.
The National Industrial Court, on Tuesday, ordered the strike suspended pending hearing of a suit filed by Wike. Justice Emmanuel Subilim ruled that industrial action must stop once a dispute reaches the court.
Wike warned that any FCTA worker refusing to resume from Wednesday, January 28, would face disciplinary action.
The strike has disrupted services in Abuja, raising concerns over governance and public welfare in the nation’s capital.
About The Author
