INTERNATIONAL LABOUR UNION PETITIONS TINUBU OVER PERSECUTION OF LABOUR LEADERS

INTERNATIONAL LABOUR UNION PETITIONS TINUBU OVER PERSECUTION OF LABOUR LEADERS

International labour unions, represented by the International Trade Union Conference (ITUC) and Public Service International (PSI), have raised concerns over alleged human rights abuses and the persecution of trade unions and labour leaders in Nigeria, particularly the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero.

This comes amid reports that trade unions worldwide are planning a “Day of Rage” to protest and raise awareness about the escalating rights abuses, intimidation, and harassment of labour leaders in Nigeria. The protest is expected to take place before the end of September in major cities across the globe.

Sources within the international labour unions disclosed that the global protest aims to spotlight the concerning developments in Nigeria. One European labour leader expressed growing unease, stating, “We are becoming increasingly uncomfortable with the situation in Nigeria. A country that once held a respected position in the global labour movement is now experiencing a troubling decline.”

The leader further highlighted the potential ripple effects of Nigeria’s actions, cautioning that smaller countries, especially in the sub-Saharan region, might emulate the negative precedents being set. “If the situation is not addressed now, it may encourage smaller countries to adopt similar approaches,” the source added.

The planned global protest aims to draw attention to the alleged human rights violations, attacks, intimidation, and persecution of labour leaders in Nigeria, with particular focus on the treatment of NLC President Joe Ajaero by security agencies. The unions hope that international pressure will prompt the Nigerian government to address these concerns and restore respect for labour rights and freedom of association in the country.