Wike's Protocol Appointment Draws Ire During FCTA Strike Action
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has stirred controversy with a new appointment announced during an ongoing industrial action that has paralyzed operations at the FCT Administration. The minister appointed Sani Musa Daura as his Senior Special Assistant on Protocol Matters, a move that has attracted significant criticism from observers and stakeholders.
Timing Questioned Amid Paralysis of FCTA Operations
The appointment comes at a particularly sensitive time, as workers under the Joint Union Action Committee have maintained an indefinite strike since January 17, 2026. This industrial action has effectively shut down activities at both the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Federal Capital Development Authority, with main gates remaining closed to workers and visitors since early Monday morning.
According to the official statement released by the Minister's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Sani Musa Daura brings over three decades of experience in the FCTA Protocol Department to his new role. The seasoned civil servant, who became Director of FCT Protocol in 2019, is scheduled to retire from the Civil Service on January 24, 2026, with his new appointment taking effect immediately upon retirement.
Strike Background and Union Directives
The ongoing strike action follows a circular issued by the Joint Union Action Committee late on Sunday night, directing all employees to remain at home in full compliance with the industrial action. Titled "Code: Remain at Home," the notice described the strike as part of ongoing agitations for improved working conditions within the FCTA.
The union leadership established a task force to ensure total compliance with the directive, warning staff against attempting to report for duty. Several departments and agencies within the secretariat complex have remained closed since the strike commenced, significantly disrupting administrative functions across the Federal Capital Territory.
Public Reactions and Political Dimensions
Reactions to Minister Wike's appointment decision have been mixed, with some commentators questioning the timing and implications of the move. Critics have suggested that the appointment represents what they describe as "elongation of Directors stay in office in disguise," while others have framed the criticism within broader political contexts.
One observer noted the apparent contradiction in appointing someone immediately after their civil service retirement rather than allowing a period before reappointment. These concerns have been amplified by the ongoing strike situation, with some suggesting the appointment timing demonstrates insensitivity to the workers' grievances.
The controversy unfolds against a backdrop of broader discussions about civil service appointments, retirement protocols, and labor relations within Nigeria's federal administrative structures. As the strike continues to disrupt FCTA operations, attention remains focused on how the administration will address both the industrial action and the questions raised by this latest appointment decision.
