Despite threats of mass protests by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter, most workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) returned to work on Monday, signalling a gradual return to normalcy after weeks of industrial unrest.

Earlier, the NLC FCT Chairman, Comrade Stephen Knabayi, had directed union members to wear union attire ahead of a planned protest scheduled for Tuesday, February 3, 2026, against the FCTA. However, a visit to major FCT administrative offices — including the Minister’s Block, Treasury Department, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS) — showed workers actively performing their duties.

Speaking anonymously, one staff member said workers decided to comply with the court order while negotiations between the unions and the administration continue. “We chose to obey the court ruling. Nobody wants to risk contempt of court or lose salaries unnecessarily,” the worker explained.

The development follows a prolonged strike by FCTA workers under the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), which began on January 9 over unpaid allowances and other unresolved demands. In response, the FCTA approached the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, challenging the legality of the strike.

Last Tuesday, Justice Emmanuel Subilim issued an ex parte order directing workers to suspend the industrial action pending the determination of the case. The order followed an application filed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the FCTA.

Subsequently, the Acting Head of Service, Nancy Sabanti Nathan, issued a circular dated January 27, 2026, instructing permanent secretaries and heads of departments to ensure compliance through staff attendance registers. The circular noted that the directive was aimed at restoring administrative order while reaffirming the administration’s commitment to staff welfare.