Tension erupted in parts of Abuja on Monday as protesting workers reportedly chased the convoy of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, amid an ongoing strike over unpaid salaries and unresolved welfare issues.
The workers, who had gathered to press their demands, became agitated when Wike’s motorcade passed through the area. In a video seen by Naija News, protesters were heard chanting “ole” — meaning “thief” — while moving toward the minister’s vehicles and calling for immediate action on their grievances.
The incident occurred during a broader protest by staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), supported by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). The workers had earlier picketed the National Industrial Court in Abuja as part of a total and indefinite strike.
The NLC has thrown its weight behind the industrial action, describing it as a justified response to what it called persistent violations of workers’ rights by FCTA authorities and political leadership.
The protesters cited several outstanding issues, including unpaid promotion arrears, poor working conditions and the lack of essential work tools. They said repeated engagements with FCTA officials had failed to produce results, leaving them with no option but to embark on an indefinite strike.
At the court premises, workers displayed placards demanding the removal of Minister Wike, as frustration over unresolved welfare concerns continued to mount.
The protest disrupted activities in parts of Abuja’s central area and underscored growing dissatisfaction among civil servants, with labour leaders insisting the strike was a last resort after months of unsuccessful negotiations.