NLC issues 14-day ultimatum to Edo govt, police over secretariat takeover
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded that the Edo State government and police vacate the NLC secretariat in Benin within 14 working days, a deadline that expires on January 8, 2025.
This ultimatum was announced in a statement signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja after the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Owerri, Imo State.
The congress condemned the police and Governor Monday Okpebholo for allegedly orchestrating an invasion of the secretariat, confiscating properties, and imposing an illegitimate leadership on workers.
Failure to comply with the demand, according to the NLC, will trigger “unprecedented measures” in defence of workers’ and trade union rights.
The NEC meeting also addressed issues affecting Nigerian workers, including cash scarcity and high taxation. The union criticised the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for inadequate cash availability, which it said burdens small businesses.
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Additionally, it demanded the suspension of a controversial Tax Bill in the National Assembly, citing exclusion of organised labour in consultations.
The congress expressed concern over the nation’s insecurity, revealing that Nigerians paid N2.23 trillion in ransom this year amid widespread crime. It called on the government to restore public safety, emphasising that workers bear the brunt of these crises.
The NLC further urged the government to prioritise inclusive policies and fiscal transparency to alleviate the economic and social challenges facing Nigerians.
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