● Kefas Akase
Tensions peaked in Abuja on Thursday as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) staged a large-scale protest at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), effectively locking out Minister Nyesom Wike from his office. The workers, drawn from Area Council staff, teachers, and primary health personnel, demanded the full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage – a commitment they say has been long ignored.
Chanting solidarity songs and wielding placards bearing messages like “We Demand Living Wages Now” and “Wike, Governance Not Drama,” the demonstrators marched from Labour House to the minister’s office in Area 11. Upon arrival, they met heavily armed security personnel guarding locked gates, but remained undeterred. “This is not Rivers State, where showmanship passes for governance,” said Comrade Jemah Mada, spokesperson for the protesters. “This is the capital of Nigeria, and we demand responsible, people-focused leadership.”
Attempts by Mandate Secretary Lawrence Garki to pacify the protesters on Wike’s behalf were firmly rejected. The crowd booed him down, insisting on hearing directly from the minister. “We didn’t come here to listen to proxies,” shouted one protester. “The minister must come out and explain why civil servants are starving while politicians live large.” Another union member, Grace Ibrahim, added, “All we ask for is a wage that can sustain a family – not handouts, not promises.”
Beyond salary demands, the protestors called for the immediate removal of the six Area Council Chairmen, accusing them of negligence and mismanagement. “This rot goes beyond Wike,” said an FCTA health worker who requested anonymity. “But as the minister, he must lead by example. We need governance rooted in service delivery – not endless politicking.”
The protest underscores growing frustration with Wike’s perceived focus on political theatrics over governance. “It’s time the minister stops being a controversial figure and starts acting like a statesman,” said Comrade Mada. “The FCT deserves leadership that prioritizes development, welfare, and dignity for workers. Until then, we’ll keep the gates locked and the pressure on.”
In response to the development, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has summoned the six Area Coincils chairmen. GMTNewsng
