Abuja, Nigeria – August 8, 2024
The NLC further criticized the recent heavy-handed responses to protests and the arbitrary use of charges like “treason” against demonstrators. They expressed fear that ongoing state brutality could further deteriorate the situation in Nigeria.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reported an armed invasion of its headquarters, Labour House, in Abuja by security operatives on the night of August 7, 2024.
According to the group spokesman, the invasion occurred around 8:30 PM, long after office hours.
In a statement issued by Benson Upah, Head of Media and Public Relations for the group, they described the incident as a severe breach of democratic principles.
The statement reveals that security personnel, including members of the Nigeria Police Force and suspected Department of State Services (DSS) operatives, forcibly entered the building. They reportedly arrested the security guard on duty and proceeded to the second floor, where they broke into offices and ransacked the bookshop, seizing numerous books and publications.
The security operatives allegedly claimed they were searching for seditious materials related to recent #EndBadGovernance protests.
They condemned the invasion as an egregious violation of legal procedures, noting that no court order was presented during the operation. The group recalled that even during military rule, such invasions were unheard of.
The labour group has called for an international inquiry into the incident and demanded the immediate return of all seized materials. They have instructed all staff to avoid the Labour House until it is confirmed safe.
The statement also warned of potential work stoppages if harassment continues and urged the international community to monitor the situation, highlighting concerns over the erosion of democratic rights and freedoms in Nigeria.
The NLC further criticized the recent heavy-handed responses to protests and the arbitrary use of charges like “treason” against demonstrators. They expressed fear that ongoing state brutality could further deteriorate the situation in Nigeria.
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