Amnesty International has condemned the Nigerian government’s ongoing attacks on the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and its leaders, calling for an end to what it describes as a crackdown on labor unions. The global human rights organization issued a statement on August 29, 2024, expressing concern over the Nigerian authorities’ alleged attempts to intimidate and harass NLC President Joe Ajaero through accusations of criminal conspiracy and terrorism financing.Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, criticized the government for its aggressive tactics against the NLC. He urged Nigerian authorities to respect labor unions’ right to operate freely, in line with international human rights laws and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Sanusi emphasized that the right to association must be protected and not suppressed by governmental actions.Amnesty International has observed a troubling trend of government efforts to undermine the NLC, including a notable incident last November when Ajaero was assaulted by police and thugs in Imo State, with no accountability for the attack. More recently, the police raided the NLC headquarters, seizing documents and forcing union leaders into hiding. In February, the NLC leadership also faced threats and intimidation related to a legitimate strike action.Sanusi argued that the Nigerian government is unlawfully interfering with the NLC’s operations and targeting its leaders with unfounded accusations. He labeled these actions as punitive measures aimed at weakening the union’s capacity to advocate for workers’ rights.Amnesty International’s statement demands an immediate halt to the government’s crackdown and urges a respect for the rights of labor unions and their leaders. The organization asserts that the attacks on the NLC are not based on legitimate concerns but are intended to punish and deter the union for its role in defending workers’ interests.
