NLC Reveals Security Operatives’ Invasion of Labour House
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has detailed an incident from Wednesday night when armed security personnel stormed their headquarters, the Labour House in Abuja.
In response, the NLC has called for an international investigation into the unsettling event.
Benson Upah, the NLC’s Head of Media and Public Relations, has instructed staff to avoid the Labour House until it’s confirmed that no incriminating or harmful items were left behind by the security forces.
The NLC is urging the global community to recognize the worsening of democratic principles in Nigeria, which seems to be moving toward a police state.
According to the NLC, around 8:30 p.m. that evening, a group of heavily armed security agents, including police and individuals in civilian clothing, broke into their headquarters.
They arrested the security guard on duty, forced him to lead them to the second floor, and when he couldn’t provide the keys, they forcibly entered and ransacked the bookshop, taking hundreds of books and publications. The agents claimed they were searching for materials related to the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The NLC strongly condemns this aggressive and unlawful behavior, noting that even during military rule, such invasions did not occur.
The NLC had already criticized the heavy-handed actions of security forces against protesters and the excessive use of charges like ‘treason’ against them. They did not expect the subsequent invasion of their headquarters.
The NLC is deeply concerned about the implications for democratic rights, freedom of speech, and peaceful protest. They are calling on the international community to recognize the decline in democratic standards.
The Congress also demands that the invading security forces leave their premises immediately and that the stolen materials be returned by the end of the day on August 8, 2024.
The NLC warns that continued harassment may lead them to instruct members to stay home until their safety is guaranteed. They emphasize that restricting public engagement and dialogue will only worsen the current difficulties facing Nigerians.
