The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reported an invasion of its Abuja headquarters, Labour House, by armed security forces on Wednesday night.
The NLC’s Head of Media and Public Relations, Benson Upah, issued a statement detailing the incident and calling for an international investigation.
According to the NLC, a group of heavily armed security operatives, including members of the Nigeria Police Force and individuals in plainclothes believed to be from the Department of State Services (DSS), stormed the Labour House around 8:30 PM, long after working hours.
The operatives allegedly arrested the security guard on duty and forced their way into the building, searching the premises for alleged incriminating materials related to the #EndBadGovernance protests.
The NLC condemned the invasion as a severe breach of democratic norms, noting that even during military rule, such actions were not taken against the organization.
The statement decried the lack of legal authorization for the raid and expressed concern over the implications for democratic rights and freedoms in Nigeria.
In response to the incident, the NLC has instructed its staff to avoid the Labour House until it is confirmed that no incriminating or harmful materials have been planted by the security operatives.
The organization is demanding the return of all confiscated books and materials and the immediate withdrawal of the security forces from its premises.
The NLC warned that if such harassment continues, it might call on its members to stay home until their safety is guaranteed.
