The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly criticized alleged instances of police harassment and intimidation directed towards union leaders.
They have issued a warning, stating their intention to stage protests at police headquarters and stations across the country unless the acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, promptly puts an end to these illicit actions.
In particular, the NLC has raised concerns about what they perceive as unwarranted interference by the IGP in the internal affairs of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), an affiliate of the NLC.
According to NLC President Joe Ajaero, the NURTW has been subject to unjust restrictions and constraints on their legitimate activities in Lagos State and other states in the Southwest, despite court rulings to the contrary.
The NLC has expressed its observations that certain forces have exhibited a sense of invulnerability, having taken control of the union in several states and even renaming them in some instances as “Lands and Parks.” These same forces are now seeking to expand their influence nationwide.
The recent detention of national union officers by the police without apparent justification, except to disrupt a valid trade union program, has raised concerns.
The NLC believes that there is an underlying motive to seize leadership of the union and exploit it as a means to suppress opposition voices and undermine democratic principles in Nigeria.
The NLC has emphasized that the IGP lacks the authority to interfere in trade union matters, as this falls outside the scope of the police’s responsibilities.
They assert that proper channels exist for addressing industrial disputes in Nigeria, involving the Federal Ministry of Labour, which possesses the legal mandate to intervene and arbitrate in such cases.
The NLC’s statement underscores their apprehension that these actions may contribute to an expansion of unlawful authority exercised by certain influential powers, utilizing the IGP’s authority to perpetrate illegitimate actions nationwide.
This situation raises significant concerns about the state of democracy in the country and warrants condemnation from all individuals committed to preserving democratic values.
The NLC issues a cautionary message to the IGP, urging him to refrain from meddling in matters beyond his jurisdiction.
They stress the importance of adhering to established procedures for addressing trade union concerns, rather than resorting to harassment and intimidation tactics against union leaders.
