Ruth NWORIE
Tension gripped parts of Abuja on Monday, January 26, as aggrieved workers protesting unresolved welfare and salary issues chased the motorcade of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Videos circulating on social media showed the protesters pursuing a vehicle reportedly conveying the minister, while chanting slogans and calling attention to their grievances.
The incident occurred amid an ongoing indefinite strike by the workers, who are backed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Earlier in the day, the protesters had picketed the National Industrial Court in Abuja, demanding the payment of outstanding entitlements and the removal of the FCT minister.
At the court premises, the workers displayed placards with inscriptions such as “Wike must go!!”, “Abuja no be Rivers”, “Pay promotion arrears”, “Enough is Enough” and “No working tools.”
The protesters said their action was prompted by unresolved welfare issues, including five months of unpaid salaries, prolonged promotion arrears and poor working conditions.
Meanwhile, Minister Wike has approached the National Industrial Court, seeking an order restraining the striking unions from continuing with the industrial action.
