By George Omagbemi
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Federal Capital Territory Council, has commenced an indefinite strike across the FCT over unresolved disputes concerning the promotion and career progression of teachers.
The action took effect on Wednesday, October 7, following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on September 8.
In a communiqué signed by NLC FCT Council Chairman, Knabayi S. Adalo, the union said it rejected the FCTA’s response to its demands, describing it as ambiguous and unacceptable.
At the centre of the dispute is the vacancy requirement for the promotion of FCT teachers. The NLC wants the condition removed, arguing that teachers should not be subjected to a promotion system designed for general pool officers.
The union is also demanding that teachers who were eligible for promotion in 2025 be allowed to sit for their promotion examinations alongside or before the 2026 candidates.
Other demands include the withdrawal of redeployment and demotion letters issued to directors covered by the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers Act, 2022, as well as changes involving the management of the FCT Secondary Education Board and Universal Basic Education Board.
The NLC has directed workers in public and private establishments, including schools, hospitals, offices and other government facilities, to withdraw their services until the issues are resolved. It has also established enforcement committees to monitor compliance.
The union appealed to parents, residents and civil society organisations to urge the FCTA to resolve the dispute.
The strike is currently indefinite, with the NLC saying workers should remain away from their duty posts until its demands are addressed.
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