The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the newly elected Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, and the State Police Command to desist from meddling in the internal affairs of its council. The NLC cautioned against early antagonism with trade unions, emphasizing that such actions could have far-reaching implications.
In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and shared with journalists in Abuja on Thursday evening, the NLC expressed alarm over a recent incident involving the alleged unlawful actions of the Edo State Police Command.
“We are disturbed by the reported unauthorized breaking and entry into the offices of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress by personnel of the Edo State Police Command,” the statement said.
The NLC revealed that the incident occurred in Benin City during the absence of the Council Chairperson, who was attending the annual Harmattan School in Abuja. Despite the gravity of the situation, neither the police nor any entity has offered an explanation.
“There are speculations that the police might have acted at the directive of the new Governor, Monday Okpebholo,” the statement added. “Regardless of who is responsible, we demand an unconditional apology and an immediate reversal of these actions.”
The NLC reminded the government and police of the legal protection trade unions enjoy, warning against further attempts to intimidate labor leaders or interfere in union affairs.
“Trade unions are protected by law, and their operations must remain free from interference by the state or any other entity,” the statement read. “Acts of intimidation not only violate trade union and human rights but also threaten our democracy.”
The Congress further advised Governor Okpebholo to prioritize more pressing state matters instead of targeting trade unions.
“As a brand-new Governor, he should focus on constructive governance. Authorizing the harassment of labor leaders should not be on his agenda,” the statement warned.
The NLC also criticized the Edo State Police Command, urging them to uphold their integrity.
“Police personnel must stop engaging in unethical actions that undermine their oath of office. Leave the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress alone! It is too early to pick a fight with us,” it stated.
Turning to another incident, the NLC demanded justice for the late Comrade Kaduna Eboidogbin, the former Chairman of the Edo State NLC Council, who allegedly died due to police misconduct.
“We join trade unions, civil society allies, and concerned Nigerians in Edo State in calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the police officers involved in the death of Comrade Kaduna Eboidogbin,” the NLC said.
The Congress rejected the officers’ explanation of the incident as “lame, ridiculous, and an insult to our collective
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