NLC, TUC to Hold February 3 Solidarity Rally Over Unpaid FCDA Workers’ Salaries
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced plans to hold a peaceful solidarity rally on February 3 in backing of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).
The decision was disclosed in a joint statement issued in Abuja and signed by Benson Upah, General Secretary of the NLC, and Nuhu Toro, Secretary General of the TUC. PulseNets learnt that the planned rally is directly linked to the ongoing industrial action by workers of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) over outstanding salary arrears.
JUAC-led workers began an indefinite strike on January 19, effectively paralysing operations at critical government offices, including the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Secretariat and the FCDA headquarters.
The industrial action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued on January 7, in which the unions demanded that FCTA management urgently resolve lingering labour and welfare concerns affecting staff.
According to the unions, the solidarity rally is intended to reinforce labour’s long-held position that the injustice suffered by one worker is a collective concern of the entire Nigerian labour movement.
“This mobilisation will clearly demonstrate that organised labour will continue to stand firm against intimidation, victimisation, and all forms of injustice directed at workers,” the statement read.
The labour centres described the FCDA workers’ struggle as legitimate and non-negotiable, stressing that the action would be sustained until fairness and justice were fully achieved. They further assured JUAC members of their total and unwavering support.
“Our commitment to the cause of JUAC members is absolute. We will not retreat until justice is done,” the unions stated.
The NLC and TUC urged striking workers to remain resolute, courageous, and united in defending their rights, noting that unity remained labour’s strongest tool.
PulseNets obtained that the rally is aimed at showcasing collective resistance against systemic injustice, while also sending a strong signal to authorities that labour rights cannot be suppressed.
The unions explained that the peaceful protest would be directed at the FCDA, emphasising that all activities planned for the day would remain lawful and orderly.
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They also instructed all affiliate unions and state councils to mobilise massively for the rally, insisting that threats or repression would not deter workers from pursuing justice.
“History has shown that workers’ rights are never handed over freely; they are secured through sustained collective struggle,” the statement added.
The labour centres reassured workers across the Federal Capital Territory that they would not be left alone in the struggle, pledging continued solidarity until their demands are met.
