By Victor Ahiuma-Young

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has petitioned Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over the alleged invasion of its secretariat in Edo State and the confiscation of its property.

In separate letters addressed to the governor and the IGP, the NLC, through its General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, informed them of a communiqué issued during its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on December 18, 2024, in Owerri, Imo State. The communiqué gave the police until January 8, 2025, to vacate the office and return all seized property to avoid a confrontation with organized labour.

The letters urged the “prompt intervention” of both officials to resolve the matter.

In the petition dated December 19, 2024, the NLC expressed its concerns, stating:

“The communiqué highlights key resolutions, including concerns regarding the invasion and ransacking of the NLC Edo State Council Secretariat. This unfortunate incident, reportedly carried out under the auspices of your administration, undermines the principles of democracy and the protection of trade union rights.

“Edo State, with its rich history of producing past trade union leaders and governors supportive of workers’ rights, cannot afford to tarnish this legacy with actions contrary to established rules of engagement as social partners.

“We urge Your Excellency to take immediate steps to vacate the secretariat premises, restore all confiscated properties, and ensure non-interference in the affairs of the Congress. The NLC remains committed to working collaboratively with your administration to address matters of mutual concern and safeguard the rights and welfare of workers in Edo State.”

Similarly, the NLC addressed a letter to IGP Egbetokun, highlighting the NEC resolutions:

“The resolutions addressed critical national concerns, including the invasion and ransacking of the NLC Edo State Council Secretariat. Recall our earlier letter to you on this issue and the current resolution of the NEC, as contained in the communiqué.

“This act, reportedly carried out with the involvement of the police, raises serious questions about the protection of trade union rights as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We request your immediate attention to ensure the safety of our members, restitution of confiscated properties, and a commitment to refraining from further interference in trade union activities. The Congress remains committed to engaging constructively with your office to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of Nigerian workers.”

The NLC has emphasized its readiness to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure the rights of workers and trade unions are respected.