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The Digest:

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has directed all its striking workers to resume duties immediately on Wednesday. According to a circular signed by the Acting Head of Service, Nancy Sebati Nathan, the directive follows a court order from the National Industrial Court suspending the ongoing strike. The circular mandates all Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments and Agencies to maintain staff attendance registers to ensure compliance. The order references Justice E.D. Subilim's ruling on Tuesday, which commanded the suspension of the industrial action declared by the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).

Key Points:
  • The directive is a direct administrative enforcement of the National Industrial Court's injunction, moving the dispute from the streets to the workplace.
  • It places the responsibility of ensuring compliance on senior management (Permanent Secretaries and Agency Heads) through mandatory attendance registers.
  • The circular balances the command to resume with a stated commitment to staff welfare, acknowledging the unresolved grievances that sparked the strike.
  • It creates a clear expectation for workers to return, setting the stage for potential disciplinary action against those who defy the court order and directive.
  • The move aims to swiftly restore government operations in the nation's capital after days of total paralysis.
The FCTA's order, backed by the court's authority, pressures striking workers to return to their posts while management reiterates its focus on addressing their welfare concerns.

Sources: Leadership, Daily Trust