Wike Seeks Court Order to Jail Striking Workers for Contempt

Governor Wike, represented by counsel Ogwu Onoja SAN, pursues legal action to imprison striking workers for disobeying a court order. The Industrial Court of Nigeria, under Justice Emmanuel Subilim, issued a directive on January 27, 2026, warning of contempt charges and potential imprisonment if the workers fail to comply.

The court instructed the workers to halt the strike until the case is resolved to prevent disruptions to government operations. The court emphasized that while workers have the right to express grievances, they must follow legal procedures.

The case involves a dispute referred to the court by the Ministry, alleging non-compliance with the Trade Disputes Act by the workers' joint union action committee, which is not a registered trade union. The matter has been adjourned until March 25 for further hearings.