The Country Director of Amnesty International, Isa Sanusi, issued a strong condemnation on Thursday regarding the invasion of the Nigeria Labour Congress headquarters in Abuja, which took place on Wednesday night.
According to The PUNCH, in his statement, Sanusi characterized the raid as a “sinister and calculated attack” aimed at intimidating the labour union.
He stated, “Amnesty International strongly condemns the brazen invasion of the headquarters of Nigeria Labour Congress by a contingent of armed security personnel. The chilling raid last night appears to be part of a sinister and calculated attack designed to intimidate the labour union.”
According to Sanusi, during the invasion, security forces ransacked the NLC bookshop and seized various materials, alleging that these items were being used to incite and organize recent protests.
This action has raised significant concerns about the intent behind the raid, especially given the NLC’s recent active role in protesting government policies.
Expressing grave concern for the safety of NLC officials, Sanusi stated, “We are deeply concerned about the safety of NLC officials. Under international human rights law and standards, trade unions cannot be targeted for their participating activities.”
His statement highlighted the potential risks that NLC leaders and members now face following the raid.
Amnesty International emphasized Nigeria’s obligation under international human rights law to not only respect but also actively protect the rights of trade unions.
Sanusi further added, “Under international human rights law, Nigeria has an obligation not only to respect the rights of trade unions but also to protect these rights from abuse.”
The raid on the NLC headquarters has ignited concerns of a potential broader crackdown on labour activism within the country.
The NLC, known for its leading role in recent protests against government policies, now faces what many fear is an attempt to suppress its influence and silence its voice in advocating for workers’ rights.
