Amnesty International denounces raid on NLC headquarters

Isa Sanusi, Country Director of Amnesty International, has condemned the invasion of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday night.

Sanusi issued a statement on Thursday describing the raid as a “sinister and calculated attack” aimed at intimidating the labor union.

“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,” he said.

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During the raid, security personnel ransacked the NLC bookshop, seizing materials they claimed were used to incite and organize recent protests. Sanusi expressed grave concern for the safety of NLC officials, asserting, “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.”

Amnesty International stressed Nigeria’s obligation to uphold and protect trade union rights under international human rights law. “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,” Sanusi added.

The raid has raised concerns about a potential crackdown on labor activism in Nigeria. The NLC, which has led recent protests against government policies, views the raid as an attempt to suppress its voice.

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