PeakNews Online
Abuja, Nigeria – August 12, 2024 – The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for an immediate apology from the Federal Government in response to a recent police raid on its Abuja headquarters. The NLC condemned the invasion as a deliberate provocation and a violation of its autonomy, urging the government to exercise restraint and engage in constructive dialogue.
In a statement released after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting over the weekend, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the government for the police action, describing it as an unjustified escalation and an attempt to obscure the underlying motives behind the raid.
The communique issued by the NLC outlined the organization’s rejection of the police’s explanation for the invasion, labeling it as an inadequate and misleading attempt to justify the aggressive action. The Congress is demanding a clear and prompt explanation from the government.
Furthermore, the NLC strongly condemned the recent killing of peaceful protesters and the arrest of trade unionists and other individuals. It called for the immediate release of those detained under questionable circumstances.
The NLC’s statement also highlighted a broader call for governmental reform. The NEC urged the government to convene an inclusive stakeholders’ conclave to address Nigeria’s pressing issues, including hunger, poverty, inflation, and insecurity. The Congress emphasized the need for a holistic overhaul of government policies and a move away from divisive rhetoric toward national unity.
The NLC warned that the current approach of intimidation and force could undermine long-term peace and stability in Nigeria. It called on President Muhammadu Buhari to tackle systemic issues such as mismanagement and corruption, and to promote meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders to achieve sustainable solutions to the nation’s challenges.
