The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) in Abuja has barred the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and its members from going on strike starting January 12.

Justice Emmanuel Subilim delivered the ruling on Friday after hearing an ex parte application filed by the Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation.

The defendants in the case (NICN/ABJ/06/2026) include NARD, its National President Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleman, and Secretary General Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim. The court’s restraining order will remain in effect until the suit is heard on January 21.

Justice Subilim directed the Federal Government to serve the order on the defendants, who may apply to vary or discharge it within seven days of receipt. The injunction prevents the association and its members from organizing, participating in, or taking steps toward any industrial action, including strikes, work stoppages, or go-slows.

The court ruled after considering submissions from the Federal Government’s legal team, led by Mrs. Maimuna Lami Shiru, Director of Civil Litigation, along with the affidavit of urgency and supporting documents.

NARD had announced plans for an indefinite strike after an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting on January 2, citing the Federal Government’s alleged failure to fulfill welfare agreements.