Teachers in FCT Commence Indefinite Strike, Disrupting Education

Teachers in government-owned primary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have begun an indefinite strike, causing significant disruption to the education of numerous pupils.

The strike follows a 14-day ultimatum issued by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Chapter, to the six area councils within the territory. On Wednesday, pupils arriving at school were turned away as teachers instructed them to return home.

Comrade Ameh Baba, Chairman of the NUT in Kubwa, confirmed the strike, citing unresolved issues as the cause. “The strike is a response to the failure of the area councils to settle 60 percent of the owed minimum wage arrears,” Baba explained.

He also criticized the councils for not implementing a 40 percent peculiar allowance and for neglecting promised salary increments of 25 percent and 35 percent. Baba emphasized the importance of primary education, stating, “The primary education sector, being the foundation of human learning, should be treated with the utmost care and priority.”

The union has issued a stern warning: “This strike is just the beginning. If the government fails to respond within the next seven days, we will escalate the situation by picketing the area councils’ secretariats.” Baba added that the strike’s impact would extend to secondary schools, with solidarity expected from their teachers.

Additionally, Baba expressed concerns for incoming Junior Secondary School (JSS) students, whose results are due for release.

The indefinite strike underscores growing tensions between the teachers’ union and local authorities over wage and allowance disputes.