By Fatima Mukhtar Isah.

The National Industrial Court sitting in Abuja has restrained the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) from proceeding with their planned protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The court issued the interim order on Monday following an ex-parte application filed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) through its legal team.

Presiding Justice Emmanuel Subilim, granted the injunction, barring the labour unions, their leadership, agents, and affiliates from embarking on the protest or any form of industrial action within the FCT, pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The suit was instituted by the FCTA alongside the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, who urged the court to halt the protest, citing concerns that it could disrupt public peace, security, and economic activities in the nation’s capital.

Justice Subilim also restrained key officials of the NLC and TUC from mobilising members or organising demonstrations until the motion on notice is heard and determined.

The court further directed security agencies to ensure strict compliance with the order and to maintain law and order across the FCT.