Labour Party Seeks Government Intervention Following NLC's Secretariat Invasion
The Labour Party (LP) has taken decisive action in response to Wednesday's intrusion into its secretariats, formally petitioning government entities for immediate intervention to safeguard the party against further hostility from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
In a series of letters addressed to key government officials including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi; Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Registrar of Trade Unions, Falonipe Amos, LP has demanded protective measures and disciplinary actions against NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and other union leaders allegedly involved in the vandalism of LP's property.
This move comes on the heels of LP's National Chairman, Julius Abure's lamentation that the party suffered significant property damage and staff salary losses due to the siege.
Tensions between the NLC and LP have escalated following the union's picketing of LP secretariats nationwide on Wednesday, advocating for Abure's resignation.
Protesting workers were witnessed besieging LP's national headquarters in Abuja, chanting slogans and brandishing banners demanding Abure's ousting. However, security personnel thwarted their attempts to access the party's premises.
Abure has accused union members of unlawfully entering their offices, causing extensive damage to property and absconding with funds designated for staff salaries.
In a statement released by LP's National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the party refuted claims suggesting NLC ownership of the Labour Party. Ifoh emphasized the need for government intervention, asserting that the NLC's actions constitute an abuse of power and a violation of constitutional and legal statutes.
He stated, "It is our contention that the use of workers' funds to picket and incite unrest at the Labour Party headquarters is an abuse of office by NLC President Joe Ajaero and warrants appropriate sanctions."
LP further emphasized that its membership is open to all Nigerians, irrespective of affiliations, and condemned the NLC's interference in its affairs.
The party has urged the government to intervene promptly, educate the NLC on the limits of its authority, and administer appropriate disciplinary measures to restore order and uphold the rule of law.
