The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has responded to the recent invasion of its Edo State office by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement addressed to the state governor, Monday Okpebholo, and signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC warned the Edo State Government to refrain from interfering in the union’s affairs and focus on governance.
While cautioning the governor to steer clear of labour matters in the state, Ajaero advised against picking fights with the union.
In his statement, the NLC President strongly condemned “the illegal break-in and entry into the offices of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress by some personnel of the Edo State Police Command.”
Ajaero described the invasion as troubling, stating that it was not only a violation of workers’ rights but also a threat to democracy.
“Acts of intimidation against trade unions or their leaders are unacceptable, as they constitute not only a violation of trade union and human rights but also a threat to our hard-won democracy,” he noted.
The NLC President urged the governor to focus on governance, saying, “In light of the foregoing, the governor is advised to stay away from labour matters in the state.
“As a newly inaugurated governor, he should have his priorities. We would hate to think that authorising the harassment of trade union leaders is one of them.
“As for the police, they should redeem their honour, if possible, by refraining from engaging in unethical actions that contravene their oath of office.
“Leave the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress alone! It is far too early to start a conflict with us,” Ajaero concluded.
