The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned striking FCT workers that blackmail will not work.
He said he remains open to dialogue.
Background
FCT workers began a strike last week.
They cited unresolved, long-standing labour issues.
The workers acted under the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC).
Court Order
On Tuesday, Justice Emmanuel Subilim of the National Industrial Court ordered the workers to resume work.
The order will remain pending the determination of a suit filed by Wike.
Wike’s Warning
Wike directed the workers to obey the court order.
He said they must return to work by Wednesday.
He warned that defaulters would face consequences.
The minister spoke to journalists on Tuesday after the ruling.
“Must people break the law without consequences?” Wike asked.
“I have given them a window. From tomorrow, if they don’t come to work, we will apply the big stick.”
He added, “From Wednesday, anyone who tries to block the gate will become a scapegoat. The law must take its place.”
Implication
Workers who fail to resume work from Wednesday risk sanctions from the FCT administration.
