…Demands apology, threatens action
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to Edo State Governor, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, over a police raid on its state office in Benin City, calling for an immediate apology and corrective action.
The incident, which occurred on Thursday while the NLC Chairperson of the Edo State Council was attending an event in Abuja, involved police personnel allegedly breaking into the union’s premises.
The NLC expressed deep concern over the unauthorised entry by officers from the Edo State Police Command, describing the act as a violation of its rights.
While the union acknowledged that the police have not provided any formal explanation, it raised suspicions that the action could have been sanctioned by the newly inaugurated governor, Okpebholo.
A statement issued by the NLC’s Head of Public Affairs, Benson Upah, strongly condemned the break-in, emphasizing that such intimidation of trade unions is unacceptable and constitutes a threat to the country’s democracy.
“Regardless of whether the police acted independently or were following orders, we demand an unconditional apology and immediate corrective measures,” Upah stated.
The union further reminded Governor Okpebholo of the importance of prioritizing state governance over matters that could escalate tensions with workers’ unions.
“As a new governor, we expect him to focus on other key priorities and not engage in disputes with labor leaders,” the NLC added in the statement.
Upah also called on the police to respect the integrity of trade unions and refrain from being used to undermine their legitimate activities.