Nigeria Labour Congress Orders Nationwide Picketing of Labour Party Offices Amid Escalating Conflict
Tensions between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the leadership of the Labour Party (LP) reached a boiling point as the NLC issued directives for picketing Labour Party secretariats nationwide.
In a letter dated Tuesday, March 19, 2024, and obtained by PUNCH Online, the NLC's Political Commission, represented by Titus Amba and Chris Uyot, instructed state councils and political committees to mobilize workers for picketing activities. The decision stemmed from a virtual meeting held on March 19, 2024, where the NLC National Political Commission and state leaderships discussed the Labour Party's alleged refusal to hold a National Convention, financial irregularities, and disregard for NLC leadership.
The letter outlined grievances against the Labour Party, accusing its National Chairman of hindering the convention process and displaying financial misconduct. Consequently, the NLC urged state councils and political committees to picket Labour Party offices on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.
This move follows a series of clashes between the NLC and Labour Party leadership. Recently, the National Working Committee of the Labour Party accused NLC President Joe Ajaero of attempting to replace Labour Party National Chairman, Julius Abure. Ajaero's alleged ambitions were revealed in an open letter by the NLC's political wing, denouncing Abure's leadership and the secrecy surrounding plans for a convention in Umuahia.
The NLC demanded Abure's resignation and the formation of a caretaker committee to organize a legitimate convention. However, the Labour Party vehemently opposed these demands, labeling them as Ajaero's ploy to seize control of the party.
Responding to the NLC's directives, the Labour Party's National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, urged Ajaero to resign from his NLC position if he intends to contest the LP chairmanship. Ifoh emphasized the LP's autonomy and dismissed the NLC's interference in party affairs.
Amidst escalating tensions, the NLC's call for picketing reflects growing discontent with the Labour Party's leadership. As both sides stand firm in their positions, the conflict between Nigeria's major labor union and a prominent political party shows no signs of abating.
