GistReel

The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has issued a warning to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, advising him to refrain from interfering in Labour matters within the state.

Ajaero cautioned the governor against instigating conflicts with the union and urged him to prioritize governance.

This warning follows a recent incident involving security operatives storming the NLC office in Edo State.

A statement by the NLC said it was disturbed by the “illegal breaking in and entry into the offices of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress by some police personnel of Edo State Police Command.”

The NLC boss said it was particularly worrisome amid speculations that the police might have acted at Okpebholo’s instance.

He said that whether the police acted alone or at the governor’s behest, the NLC demanded an apology.

“Acts of intimidation of trade unions or their leaders are equally off-limits as these constitute not only a violation of trade union/human rights but a threat to our hard-won democracy.

“In light of the preceding, the governor is advised to steer off labour matters in the state.

“As a brand-new governor, he should have his priorities. We would hate to think that authorising the harassment of trade union leaders is one of them.

“As for the police, they should retrieve their honour, if they can, by not lending themselves to the performance of dirty jobs in contravention of their oath of office.

“Leave Edo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress alone! It is too soon to start a fight with us,” Ajaero said.